Stolen Maltese has been returned to its owners

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office said a Maltese that was stolen early Nov. 19 during a burglary, has been returned safe and sound to its rightful owners.

Shortly after noon on November 19, deputies responded 11690 Pine Hammock Circle, Fort Myers in reference to a home burglary.The victims said that thieves had forcibly entered their home while they were away. The culprits ransacked the home, stealing various items including a computer, flat screen television, money, jewelry and the couple’s pet dog, an 8-year-old Maltese named Sugar.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office today said that during the evening hours of November 19, deputies were called to the Publix at Summerlin Rd. and Colonial Blvd. One of the clerks told deputies a regular customer had returned to the store after shopping and said he found a dog in his car.

The customer had left his windows down in the Publix parking lot while he shopped. The clerk said she recognized the dog, which had been featured in media reports throughout the day. The dog was unharmed and has been reunited with its owners.

The investigation into the burglary continues. If you have information about this burglary, you can earn a reward by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-780-TIPS. You do not have to give your name.