Woman Broke Into Leesburg Home To Stole Dog She Surrendered In 2022: Police

LEESBURG, VA — A woman arranged to break into a Leesburg home last month to steal a dog that she voluntarily surrendered in 2022, the Leesburg Police Department said. An accomplice forced his way into the home and left with the dog, according to authorities.

The dog, Gelato, was turned over to authorities on July 28 unharmed.

The woman, 21-year-old Taylor Ward, was arrested on Monday. A man, 22-year-old Dabryn Norris, was also charged in the investigation.

Ward is charged with conspiracy to steal an animal and conspiracy to commit breaking and entering. Norris is charged with stealing an animal, breaking and entering, conspiracy to steal an animal and conspiracy to commit breaking and entering.

Ward and Norris were both released on $5,000 bond.

If convicted of all charges, Ward could face up to 20 years in prison. Norris could face up to 50 years, based on Virginia's sentencing guidelines. They are scheduled to appear in court on Aug. 25.

On July 12, someone broke into a home in Leesburg and stole Gelato, according to authorities. The residents were not home at the time.

"No other items were taken during the burglary, including another dog that was also in the residence at the time," the Leesburg Police Department said.

Investigators eventually identified Ward and Norris as suspects. Authorities said Ward was Gelato's previous owner, but she voluntarily surrendered the dog last year.

Gelato was turned over to authorities "in good condition" on July 28, the police department said.