A California family is desperately seeking a holiday miracle after their beloved pet cat was allegedly stolen from their doorstep by an Amazon delivery driver, an incident captured by their home security camera.
Security Footage Captures Alleged Theft
The incident occurred in Lakewood, California on the evening of December 11. Homeowner Diane Huff-Medina shared video footage that shows an Amazon Flex driver dropping off a package at her home around 6 p.m. The driver then notices the family's six-year-old cat, Piper, who is both an indoor and outdoor pet.
The clip shows the man petting the feline before attempting to pick her up. After some initial resistance, the driver is seen grabbing Piper by the scruff of her neck, carrying her to his delivery vehicle, and driving away. Huff-Medina described the cat's meows as becoming increasingly distressed before the driver "more aggressively grabs her and carries her off like a raccoon or something."
Family's Plea and Police Investigation
"We just want her back home safely," Huff-Medina pleaded in a Facebook post accompanied by the footage and photos of Piper. She made the appeal on behalf of herself and her three young sons, who are heartbroken over the loss of their pet.
Huff-Medina reported the incident to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department on Monday, December 16. Authorities confirmed the driver has been identified and that criminal charges are pending. According to the LACSD, the suspect admitted to taking the cat but claimed he believed it was a stray. He further stated that the cat later "got restless and jumped out" of his truck.
Piper was microchipped but was not wearing her collar at the time of the incident. Despite an ongoing search, the cat has not been located.
Amazon's Response and Consequences
Amazon launched an immediate investigation upon being notified. A company spokesperson stated, "This was a horrible act, and we've apologized to Ms. Huff-Medina. The Amazon Flex delivery partner in question is no longer eligible to deliver to our customers."
The case highlights concerns about the conduct of gig economy workers with access to private residences. For the Huff-Medina family, the focus remains solely on Piper's safe return. "I just want my cat back for myself and for my kids, especially," Huff-Medina told KCBS. "I have three little boys who love her. We want her back."
