Illinois: Two Petland employees, Anais Marquez and Karlie Pellock, charged with stealing Pomeranian along with Emanuel Lopez

ILLINOIS -- Two women are charged with misdemeanor retail theft for allegedly swiping a $1,500 Pomeranian from the Naperville pet store where they have worked.

Police said Anais Marquez and Karlie Pellock, both 19 and of Plainfield, are Petland employees who planned Friday's puppy theft with Emanuel Lopez, 19, of Plainfield.

Note: Lopez was also charged with animal cruelty after police found out he held the puppy down and blew marijuana smoke in her face until she passed out. 

Marquez and Pellock were arrested Monday and later released from custody after posting bond. Naperville police have a warrant for Lopez's arrest on felony retail theft.

Both women were working during the theft, said Naperville Police Cmdr. Dave Hoffman. They allegedly had agreed to give Lopez $60 for the dog.

On Monday afternoon, a Plainfield woman returned the puppy to the store. Hoffman said she is not connected to the crime.

(Chicago Tribune - March 27, 2008)