MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – When Osiris Romero left home to buy his dog, Bella, some food from the grocery store, he never imagined his little Yorkshire terrier would be gone when he returned.
Romero said he was gone for 90 minutes, long enough for his home -- and his world -- to be turned upside down.
Thieves broke in through his bathroom window of his home in the 2200 block of Northwest 99th Street. Once inside, they ransacked the home, stealing cash, jewelry and electronics.
Romero said five televisions were ripped off the walls. He estimates $50,000 worth of property and money was taken. That doesn't include the theft of Bella, a loss that he said is priceless.
"My dog (is) my baby," a tearful Romero told Local 10 News.
Romero said his 5-year-old Yorkie is sick. She suffers from seizures and needs medication and regular trips to the veterinarian. He is willing to pay a reward to anyone who can return Bella.
"I only want the dog," Romero said. "No money. No TV. Only my dog."
The thieves made a mess of the home, overturning beds and furniture. Romero said they may have left blood behind, which police will test for DNA.
Anyone with information is urged to call Miami-Dade police.
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