Guelph Police Investigating Pet Extortion Scam

The Guelph Police Service is investigating after the owner of a lost pet was the apparent victim of an extortion attempt.

On Monday afternoon police received a call from a south-end resident. He reported his cat went missing in January and he later offered a reward via social media and posters around his neighbourhood.

On Monday he received a text from someone claiming to have the cat and demanding payment in exchange for a photo proving his claim. The owner asked to meet in person and promised to pay the reward for the cat’s return, however the unknown male claimed he had given the cat away and stopped responding.

A Guelph Police Service officer attempted to call and text the unknown person’s phone and received a message that it is now out of service. The investigation is ongoing.