Tony Wittmann, a former Australian soldier, allegedly raided an animal shelter Monday night while in full tactical gear to retrieve his lost cat.
Wittmann was told that he could pick up his cat from the Lost Dogs’ Home in Melbourne, Australia, the next day, but he did not want to wait, ABC News reports.
Court hears former Australian soldier stormed animal shelter like a ‘SWAT team in the movies’ searching for his lost cat https://t.co/utFkg0cb9m
— ABC News (@abcnews) January 13, 2021
“On this occasion, he’s acted to get back possession of a cat, which he was only going to be without for possibly 10 hours,” Detective Senior Constable Jo MacDonald reportedly said.
Upon entering the facility, Wittman allegedly pointed his rifle at an employee while asking where the cats were kept. (REPORT: Woman Steals 3-Month-Old Kitten From DC Animal Rescue Shelter)
“Do as I say and listen to me, I won’t shoot you,” Wittman allegedly said to the worker.
Wittmann then tied up the employee after telling her to get on her knees and put her hands behind her back, according to ABC News.
When leaving the shelter, Wittmann allegedly left his military-style vest, balaclava, and tactical helmet in a bush.
While detectives were searching the scene the morning after for clues, Wittmann reportedly returned to claim his cat.
As a result of the incident, Wittmann reportedly faces various charges including kidnapping, false imprisonment, and armed robbery.