Stolen Dog Reunited with Owner After Thief Tried to Sell Online, Culprit Arrested
(Troy Police, April 30, 2025)
Troy, MI – On April 22, 2025, Troy Police officers were dispatched to the front lobby of the Troy Police Department for a report of a stolen dog. Officers met with the dog’s owner and a local resident who initially found the dog. The resident reported discovering a brindle-colored French Bulldog in her backyard earlier that day. In an attempt to locate the owner, she posted a photo of the dog to Facebook.
A male contacted her claiming to be the dog’s owner and provided what appeared to be convincing photos and information. Believing him, the resident released the dog to him. Later that day, the true owners—who live nearby—contacted the resident after seeing the Facebook post. They attempted to reach the male who took the dog but were unsuccessful. They then discovered the dog had been listed for sale online.
The following day, the owner arranged a meeting with the suspect, posing as an interested buyer. Troy officers were dispatched to DMC Children’s Hospital at 350 W Big Beaver Road, where the meeting was to take place. Upon arrival, officers located the suspect vehicle, the dog’s owner, and the French Bulldog.
The suspect, a 24-year-old Detroit man, was arrested at the scene and transported to the Troy Police Lock-Up Facility. He was charged with one count of Larceny $1,000–$20,000, a felony offense.
The suspect, identified as Malik Deshawn Motley, was arraigned by Magistrate Chiappelli at the 52-4 District Court on April 23, 2025. Bond was set at $15,000 Cash/Surety, No 10%.
The French Bulldog has been safely reunited with its rightful owner.
