A 15-year-old cat was returned to his owners on Monday, weeks after a New York nanny allegedly stole him before he could be euthanized.
Rebecca Katz, 33, was charged with petit larceny for reportedly stealing a tabby cat named “Tigger” from Russell and Julie Berman on July 2. NBC News reported that the nanny stole Tigger a day before the couple planned to euthanize him and left behind a note detailing her actions.
On Tuesday, Katz told the New York Post that officers arrived at her Oceanside home under the guise of executing an outstanding bench warrant for her husband but took the cat instead. The news outlet noted that Monday’s incident occurred despite Nassau County Court Judge Rhonda Fischer ordering prosecutors to hold off on filing a search warrant for the cat pending Wednesday’s hearing, which would address his health and custody.
According to court documents, Julie Berman told authorities that they were putting Tigger down “due to many medical issues” which have caused him pain in recent months. Katz claimed she’s paid $1,000 on vet visits and has denied the cat is terminally ill.
Katz’s lawyer, Carolyn Sanchez, told NBC News that a veterinarian at Manhasset Animal Hospital who reviewed Tigger’s medical records said even with his medical issues, he doesn’t have a serious medical condition and isn’t in any pain. The vet estimated that the cat could live for another 2 1/2 to 5 years, according to Sanchez.
Sanchez also alleged that cops improperly took Tigger. Meanwhile, a Nassau County Police spokesperson told the news network that they knew nothing of Monday’s incident.
The Bermans indicated that they’re not going to euthanize the 15-year-old cat and will get him treatment, according to Sanchez.
The attorney said, “The Bermans appear to be sincere and I’m hopeful that they will do the right thing by this cat.”
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[Featured image: Pixabay]
