Police charge man over alleged RSPCA shelter puppy theft

Police have charged a man who they allege broke into an RSPCA shelter wearing a clown mask and stole a four-month-old puppy named Cashew.

Detectives have charged a man over the alleged theft of a four-month-old puppy from an RSPCA shelter north of Brisbane.

Police allege the 33-year-old man donned a clown mask and used a grinder to cut into a pen and steal the young pup from the Dakabin shelter about 2am on March 19.

Investigations led police to find Cashew – a Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix – five days later at a property in Mango Hill.

Cashew was allegedly stolen from RSPCA Dakabin on Saturday. Picture: RSPCA Queensland

She was reunited with her new owners who were due to adopt her the day she was taken.

Police attended a Deception Bay address on Friday afternoon and the 33-year-old went voluntarily with officers to Redcliffe Watchhouse.

He was charged with one count each of enter premise and commit indictable offence by break, before being released on strict bail conditions.

RSPCA spokeswoman Emma Lagoon told The Courier-Mail the incident had “devastated” the organisation.

She said Cashew had required veterinary treatment but was safe.

“We’re thrilled and so excited she’s back and we can’t thank police and the public enough for their concern,” Ms Lagoon said.

“It’s just the best news.”

The man will appear before Redcliffe Magistrates Court on April 6.