Animal Control Officer Impersonator Steals Dog

A man posing as a TCDC Animal Control Officer, driving a white Nissan ute removed a dog from a Whitianga property early yesterday.

"All Council vehicles dealing with animal control have the TCDC logo on the side and all Animal Control Officers carry identification," says Steve Hart, Team Leader, Bylaws & Compliance.

"You can ring Council to do a spot check, all genuine officers will be happy for you to call," says Mr Hart.

The man introduced himself as 'Graham' and had information that matched the person's circumstances. Another victim in Waihi gave a man impersonating a Council Bylaws officer their dog after he knew their dog killed a rabbit. We believe information could be gathered from people's Facebook or You Tube posts. Both incidents were picked up only after the people rang Council to enquire about their dogs.

"If a white ute with the word 'Ranger' on the side of the vehicle and no TCDC logo approaches you, please call us immediately on 07 868 0200. We would love to catch the offender," says Mr Hart.

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