Dog Snatched from Backyard Safely Returned to Family

Rocky the Yorkie mix was taken from his Clifton, New Jersey home on Easter Sunday but has since been reunited with his family.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:26pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph of a small dog playing in a backyard, with soft pools of warm light and color creating a dreamlike, atmospheric scene.The joyful reunion of a beloved family pet after a harrowing dognapping incident brings a sense of relief and renewed appreciation for the comforts of home.Clifton Today

Rocky, a Yorkie mix dog, was snatched from the backyard of his family's home in Clifton, New Jersey on Easter Sunday. After a distressing few days, Rocky has now been safely returned to his family.

Why it matters

Dognappings can be traumatic for both pets and their owners, raising concerns about home security and the motivations behind such incidents. This case highlights the importance of community vigilance and the relief felt when a beloved pet is recovered.

The details

Surveillance footage captured the moment a woman and child took Rocky from the family's backyard. The Chans, Rocky's family, were devastated by his disappearance. After following up on the Honda Pilot seen in the video, police spoke to the woman who took Rocky. She is reportedly a Newark resident who was making deliveries in Clifton when she spotted the dog.

  • Rocky was snatched from his backyard on Easter Sunday.
  • Rocky was found and reunited with his family on Wednesday.

The players

Rocky

A Yorkie mix dog who was snatched from his family's backyard in Clifton, New Jersey.

The Chan Family

Rocky's family who had owned him for seven years and were devastated by his disappearance.

Ronnie Villalovos

A family member of the Chans who expressed relief at Rocky's safe return.

The Woman

A Newark resident who was reportedly making deliveries in Clifton when she spotted Rocky and took him from the family's backyard.

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What they’re saying

“Such a great feeling that we recovered him and that he's going to go back home.”

— Ronnie Villalovos, Family Member

“I'm really happy. I've been really stressed out these past few days.”

— Chen's Daughter

“Definitely steak, he loves steak. Whatever he wants. We'll probably get him a steak bigger than him.”

— The Chan Family

What’s next

At this point, there are no criminal charges against the woman who took Rocky. The police are continuing to investigate the incident.

The takeaway

This case highlights the emotional impact of pet theft on families and the importance of community vigilance in recovering missing animals. It also raises questions about the motivations behind dognappings and the need for stronger security measures to protect pets in residential areas.