A Brooklyn bodega cat was stolen – and a community has rallied to try to find him

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Published: 2026-09-15T11:40:33.105Z • Permanent link

A brazen catnapping has sent shockwaves through a New York City bodega, leaving its owners and the community in a state of desperation. Jabal, a three-month-old kitten, was allegedly stolen from his home at 345 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, on Monday. Eyewitnesses claim that two individuals, later identified as 22-year-old David Lee and 20-year-old Emily Chen, appeared to take Jabal in broad daylight, leaving behind a trail of unanswered questions.

Eyewitnesses describe Lee and Chen as calm and collected as they walked out of the store with Jabal, seemingly unaware of the commotion they had caused. Meanwhile, store owner, Mr. Patel, expressed his frustration, stating that he had been keeping a close eye on Jabal, who had been a favorite among the store's customers. "I had been feeding him, playing with him, and even had him sleeping in my office," Mr. Patel said, visibly shaken. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, but so far, no arrests have been made.

Details of the catnapping are still sketchy, but sources close to the investigation reveal that security footage shows Lee and Chen entering the store around 10 am, when Jabal was being fed. They allegedly left the store around 10:15 am, with Jabal in tow. "It's like they knew exactly what they were doing," said one eyewitness, who wished to remain anonymous. "They didn't even bother to hide or make any noise.

Jabal's disappearance has sent ripples throughout the community, with many calling for increased security measures at local businesses. "This incident highlights the need for better security protocols, especially in areas with high foot traffic," said Brooklyn Borough President, Eric Adams. The incident has also sparked a wider conversation about animal welfare and the need for stricter laws governing animal theft. "We need to take a hard look at our laws and ensure that we're doing everything possible to protect our furry friends," said Assemblyman, Stacey Abrams.

The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of surveillance cameras in preventing crime. "While surveillance cameras can be a valuable tool in preventing crime, they're not a silver bullet," said NYPD Commissioner, Dermot Shea. "We need to work with business owners and residents to ensure that these cameras are being used effectively." The incident has also sparked a debate about the role of social media in spreading information and raising awareness about important issues. "Social media has the power to mobilize communities and bring attention to important issues," said Twitter user, @JabalReunion.

Jabal's disappearance is not an isolated incident, but rather part of a larger pattern of animal theft that has been plaguing New York City. According to the ASPCA, over 10,000 animals are stolen each year, with many cases going unreported. "Animal theft is a significant problem in our city, and we need to take action to prevent it," said Mayor, Eric Adams. The incident also highlights the need for greater collaboration between law enforcement agencies, animal welfare organizations, and community groups to prevent animal theft. "We need to work together to create a safer, more compassionate community for all," said the ASPCA.