Cinnamon Found, Suspect Arrested

Jolene Hoffman, director of the Ventura County Humane Society Shelter in Ojai, checks out the collar of Cinnamon, a 4-year-old red Pomeranian, who was returned to the shelter yesterday. Cinnamon was stolen from the shelter July 2.

Report, photo by Rob Clement
Cinnamon, a 4-year-old Pomeranian, was reported stolen from the Humane Society of Ventura on July 2 by Humane Society employees. She was found at a residence on Santa Ana Boulevard in Oak View Monday morning, following five separate phone reports from anonymous sources in the area. Shelter director Jolene Hoffman brought a microchip scanner to the residence to confirm the dog's identity. "As soon as I saw her, I knew it was her. The scanner confirmed it. She seems very relieved not to be around the larger dogs, it was very frightening for her. She's still in my arms."
Thomas Petropulos, 28, was arrested on suspicion of stealing Cinnamon, and booked into the Ventura County main jail. He was released on his own recognizance July 24, but due in court to answer the theft charge Aug. 10.
As for Cinnamon's adoption status now, "She's been through two homes before she got here, then spayed here, and then stolen from here. Cinnamon's been through so much. She's a special needs dog now, she needs someone who is soft-spoken, gentle, and who has a lap to offer her. It will take a lot to prove worthiness for this little pup." Hoffman said.
Hoffman also stated that a gentlemen offered a consideerable amount of money as donation towards surveillance equipment. " We are so very thankful to him for that, but we still need help towards that goal."
To donate, call the Humane Society at 646-6505.