Losing a pet is heartbreaking. Being scammed while searching for them is unforgivable.

Recently, a Lincoln woman was targeted by a scammer pretending to be with Lincoln Animal Control. The scammer claimed to have found her missing dog — and demanded a cash payment for the return. It was all a lie. She never got her dog back.

This isn’t just cruel — it’s criminal. And we need action.

We’re calling on the Lincoln Police Department to:

• Fully investigate this case and others like it
• Publicly warn the community about these scams
• Work with Animal Control to establish a clear, safe protocol for pet recovery calls
• Ensure that scammers who exploit grieving pet owners are held accountable

This kind of fraud is predatory — targeting people who are emotional, desperate, and vulnerable. Let’s protect our neighbors. Let’s stop these scams before more families are hurt.

Sign this petition to demand action from LPD and help keep Lincoln’s pets — and their people — safe.