ICYMI: Polly Want to Catch a Thief—$7,000 Parrot Snatched From New Jersey Pet Store!
An exotic African gray parrot worth $7,000 was stolen in a New Jersey heist, and police are now chasing the fugitive behind the theft. 🌐 #News #SaddleBrookNJ #NewJersey #Crime
SADDLE BROOK, NJ – Police in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, are on the hunt for a suspect after an exotic parrot worth $7,000 was stolen from a local pet shop. The prized African gray parrot, known for its intelligence and value, was taken in a brazen daylight theft. While the bird has been safely recovered and returned to its rightful home, the suspect remains at large, and authorities are urging the public to help track him down.
Thief Strikes Pet Store and Flees With Valuable Bird
On January 23, just after 4 p.m., chaos struck Birds by Joe 2 in Saddle Brook.
A man, later identified as 24-year-old Onyx Calderon from Paterson, entered the store posing as an interested customer.
He asked to see the African gray parrot up close. The store owner complied, placing the bird in a cage to allow for a closer look. But what seemed like a typical visit quickly turned criminal.
Calderon allegedly grabbed the cage containing the parrot and bolted out of the store, leaving staff stunned.
The stolen parrot, valued at around $7,000, triggered an urgent police investigation. Surveillance footage and still images helped investigators quickly identify Calderon as the suspect.
Parrot Recovered, but Thief Still Missing
The search for the valuable parrot ended successfully when it was found unharmed in Paterson.
On Monday, authorities confirmed that the bird had been safely returned to Birds by Joe 2.
Despite the happy reunion, the case is far from over. Calderon is still on the run, and police have issued a warrant for his arrest.
Police Seek Public’s Help
Saddle Brook Police Chief John Zotollo Jr. is asking for anyone with information about Calderon’s location to step forward. Those with tips can contact the Saddle Brook Police Department’s main line at 201-843-7000, which is available 24/7. Alternatively, tips can be directed to the Detective Bureau at 201-587-2927.
Authorities remain determined to bring Calderon into custody. For now, though, the man accused of pulling off this bold theft remains a fugitive.
RELATED TOPICS: Animals | Crime | New Jersey
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