Darryl Robert Wilkinson faces court charged with stealing seven Pitbull-cross puppies

A Christies Beach father claims he is “no superhero” but as far as he’s concerned he saved the litter of Pitbull-cross puppies he is charged with stealing.

A Christies Beach father who allegedly stole seven Pitbull-cross puppies says he was saving the dogs outside of court.

Darryl Robert Wilkinson, 37, appeared in the Christies Beach Magistrate court on Monday.

Mr Wilkinson was charged with serious criminal trespass and dishonestly taking property without consent after he allegedly entered a Morphett Vale home between April 12 and 15, 2022, and made off with the puppies.

Darryl Robert Wilkinson outside of Christies Beach Magistrate court. Monday, May 23, 2022. Picture: Emily Jarvis

Police allege just after midnight the following day, a search was conducted of Mr Wilkinson’s Christies Beach address, where they found two of the litter safe and well.

A third puppy was later handed in to the local police station.

The remaining four puppies were also later returned to their owner following a public appeal launched by police.

However, outside of court Mr Wilkinson told the media he was “saving the puppies” and was critical of the way that the puppies were being cared for.

He denied any intention to sell them.

Two of the Pitbull-cross puppies that were allegedly stolen. Picture: SA Police

“They (the puppies) were going off for three days,” Mr Wilkinson said.

“I was just trying to do right by the dogs … I saved them as far as I am concerned.”

No pleas were entered inside court.

Mr Wilkinson insisted that his intentions were good.

“I’m no superhero … I would do it all again tomorrow.” he said.

Mr Wilkinson will return to court next month.