A family in Sacremento, California lost their dog as it wandered off onto the street last Saturday. Tinkerbell, the tiny chihuahua, took off down the road chasing a car, where a neighbor saw a stranger snatch her up.

A few days ago, the owner received a call with great news: Tinkerbell was fine! When she thanked the stranger and offered the $50 reward, the stranger refused -- and demanded $200.

After being worried for the safety of the dog and unable to afford the requested amount of cash, the owner called the Sheriff's Department. They told her it was a civil matter. No news has yet to be reported on the matter of the small pup being held for ransom.

If stealing is crime, then should the police have done more to help this family and man's best friend? Or are the police right in leaving this a civil matter?

This news was contributed by cas