Women's dog and cats kidnapped and tortured in extortion bid

Pets belonging to two Hutt Valley women have been kidnapped and tortured in a macabre extortion racket.

Police have investigated but, despite having "grave suspicions and concerns" about the behaviour of a man living in the community while on bail, say they do not have enough evidence to secure a conviction.

Honey, a 6-year-old fox terrier belonging to Evelyne Weaver, of Stokes Valley, had a hole drilled in her throat and stuffed with tar, her flesh was shaved to the bone, and she was stored in a car boot and a freezer.

Mrs Weaver claims the torture was carried out by a person known to her.

The man said he had found Honey but demanded $40 for her return, saying he had spent that much looking.

Mrs Weaver refused and the man returned the dog anyway.

"She was dead on her feet and couldn't move," Mrs Weaver said. Honey was taken to the Stokes Valley Veterinary Clinic but had to be put down after three days.

Later, two cats belonging to Marina Lathouraki, of Waiwhetu, vanished. One, 4-year-old Athena, returned home with a dislocated jaw. The other, 2-year-old Tarcus, has yet to be found.

The man, who was also known to Mrs Lathouraki, told her that Tarcus was at a friend's house, and it would cost her $100 for the cat's return. Mrs Lathouraki gave him $60 and has not seen him since.

Both women complained to police about their pets being tortured and the extortion attempts, but say they have been frustrated by seeming inaction.

Mrs Weaver said the man's mother-in-law had his car at her home, with blood-stained boot, but was still waiting to be interviewed by police.

Inspector Mike Hill, of Lower Hutt police, said Mrs Weaver's complaint was still being investigated. Though the man had yet to be formally interviewed, there was insufficient evidence to secure a successful prosecution "at this stage".

- NZPA