Suspect Sought in Theft of Elderly Woman's Service Dog

Las Vegas police ask public for help identifying woman caught on camera stealing vital medical alert dog

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:20pm

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The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in identifying a woman caught on surveillance video stealing a service dog from an elderly woman in the East Valley area of Las Vegas. The incident occurred in March at a business on Boulder Highway, and the stolen dog serves as a vital medical alert and mobility aid for the victim.

Why it matters

Service dogs provide essential support and independence for people with disabilities, and the theft of such an animal can have a devastating emotional and practical impact on the owner. This case highlights the vulnerability of the elderly and disabled, as well as the importance of community support in tracking down suspects in crimes against vulnerable populations.

The details

Surveillance footage shows an unidentified woman grabbing the service dog and fleeing the scene in a white Toyota minivan. Detectives have exhausted initial leads and are now asking the public to come forward with any information that could help identify the suspect or locate the stolen vehicle.

  • The incident occurred in March at a business in the 5100 block of Boulder Highway, near Nellis Boulevard.
  • Surveillance images were officially released on Friday, April 17, 2026.

The players

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the theft of the service dog.

Unidentified Woman

The suspect caught on camera stealing the service dog from an elderly woman.

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What they’re saying

“Anyone with information regarding the identity of the woman or the location of the vehicle is urged to contact Metro's Southeast Area Command at 702-828-3206 and reference event LLV260300071235. Anonymous tips can also be submitted via Crime Stoppers of Nevada.”

— Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

What’s next

Detectives are continuing to investigate the theft and are appealing to the public for any information that could help identify the suspect or locate the stolen service dog.

The takeaway

This case underscores the vital role service dogs play in supporting the elderly and disabled, and the devastating impact their theft can have. The community's assistance in identifying the suspect is crucial to recovering the stolen dog and ensuring justice for the victim.