JACKSON – Jackson police are asking for the public’s help after the Animal Rescue Fund of Mississippi was burglarized multiple times in May.
According to the Jackson Police Department, the animal rescue, located at 395 W. Mayes St., was burglarized on May 13, May 19 and May 20. Police said the burglaries happened at different times, but all occurred after 11 p.m.
ARF said the first break-in happened Monday night, when thousands of dollars worth of supplies were stolen from the shelter. According to the organization, the stolen items included a large amount of medicines, vaccines, cleaning products, NexGard Plus for dogs and cats and other supplies. ARF estimated the value of the stolen items to be between $15,000 and $18,000.
ARF said the organization was hit again the next day. During the second burglary, the organization said lawn equipment was stolen, including a large Ryobi lawn mower, a Ryobi weed eater, large Ryobi batteries and a charger.
ARF said a police report was filed, and staff members were gathering camera footage to provide to police.
The organization said the suspect returned again on May 20. During that burglary, ARF said the suspect damaged a fence, broke into a trailer and stole several items, including a recently purchased window unit, ice cream, dog crates used to transport animals for spay and neuter appointments, and copper from a light pole.
The organization said the suspect also damaged security connections and left the trailer with a large opening.
ARF said officers have responded each time to take reports. The organization said police collected items left behind by the suspect and obtained flash drives with video of the thefts.
The suspect is described as a Black male with a slender build and medium complexion. Police said his hair is unknown. Investigators believe the suspect may live in the area where the burglaries occurred.
ARF said the repeated break-ins have caused financial and emotional strain on the rescue, which continues to care for homeless, abandoned, abused, neglected, sick and injured dogs and cats in the community. The organization is asking for donations to help replace stolen supplies, repair damage and continue caring for animals.
Donations may be made through PayPal at [email protected] or mailed to ARF of MS, 395 W. Mayes St., Jackson, MS 39213.
Anyone with information about the burglaries is asked to contact the Jackson Police Department at 601-960-1800 or Crime Stoppers at 601-355-TIPS (8477).
