Police Nab Thieves, Recover Donation Box for Cat

It was money that was going to charity, a collection from customers moved to reach into their wallets to help offset veterinary bills for a Royal Oak cat.

Then, poof! It was gone after someone grabbed the donation box inside Noir Leather and jumped into a waiting car.

Witnesses were able to give police patrolling in the area a description and, lo and behold, the police nabbed the car, said Keith Howarth, owner of Noir Leather.

The incident happened at approximately 5 p.m. Friday, Howarth said. With the help of store manager Lisa LaFord and passersby who witnessed the theft, Royal Oak police were able to recover the box filled with approximately $180 meant for Jackie, a Royal Oak cat diagnosed with cancer last year.

Howarth began collecting donations at his Fourth Street store after learning his neighbor's 10-year-old cat needed a leg amputation to survive.

"Jackie had two operations and in all it's been about $4,000," said cat owner
Barb Wolinski. "Keith is the greatest guy—and his wife Kathleen—and all the people at Noir. I have received at least $1,000 in donations."

In addition to spare change, letters and notes have also been placed in the donation box from well-wishers, Wolinski said. She has replied to each with a thank you note. 

Next up is a thank you note to the Royal Oak Police Department, she said.