Amazon Delivery Driver Caught on Camera Stealing Family Cat in West Yorkshire
A shocking incident has emerged from Elland, near Halifax in West Yorkshire, where an Amazon delivery driver was captured on doorbell footage brazenly scooping up a family's beloved cat during a routine package drop-off. The driver, who apparently 'took a shine' to the animal, has left the pet's owners devastated and prompted a police investigation.
The Disturbing Footage and Disappearance
Doorbell camera video from Sunday afternoon, January 18, shows a man wearing a high-visibility jacket bending down close to the front door of a property on Park Avenue in Elland. As he stands up, a small dark-coloured cat named Nora can clearly be seen in the man's right hand. The delivery driver then makes his way back towards his vehicle before disappearing from view with the family pet.
Since that moment, Nora has not returned home, leaving her family in what owner Carl Crowther describes as 'total shock and disbelief'. Mr Crowther had been expecting a package from Zara for his daughter when the incident occurred, and only discovered what happened when he reviewed his doorbell footage after growing concerned about Nora's absence.
Family's Anguish and Health Concerns
The Crowther family's distress is compounded by Nora's medical condition. The cat suffers from a heart murmur and requires regular medication, making her disappearance particularly concerning. Mr Crowther explained that initially he wasn't worried when he hadn't seen Nora all day, as she is an outdoor cat who 'knows her way home'.
However, when the pet failed to return the following morning, Carl and his partner Sarah, 52, began to grow suspicious. Their worst fears were confirmed when they checked the doorbell footage and witnessed the delivery driver picking up Nora and walking off after delivering their package.
Police Investigation and Amazon's Response
West Yorkshire Police have confirmed they are investigating the matter after receiving a report of a cat being stolen from outside the property on Park Avenue at around 2.30pm on Monday, January 19. A spokesperson stated: 'A crime of theft has been recorded and enquiries remain ongoing.'
Mr Crowther has handed the video evidence to both Amazon and the police. He expressed particular dismay at Amazon's initial response, revealing: 'I've been emailing them and their response was disgusting, asking what monetary value we'd put on the cat. How can you put a value on somebody's pet?'
Amazon has confirmed they are investigating the incident and have been in direct contact with Mr Crowther and the police. It is understood the driver was not employed directly by Amazon but worked for a subsidiary company.
Family's Ongoing Search and Public Appeal
The Crowther family remain desperate for Nora's safe return. Mr Crowther described the driver's actions as 'absolutely disgusting', noting that the man was at the property for over six minutes before taking the cat. The family continues to search for their missing pet while cooperating with police investigations.
This incident highlights growing concerns about:
- The vulnerability of pets during home deliveries
- The importance of doorbell camera evidence in such cases
- Corporate responsibility when subcontractors are involved
- The emotional impact of pet theft on families
As the investigation continues, the community in Elland remains alert for any sightings of Nora, while the broader conversation about delivery worker conduct and pet safety gains momentum across West Yorkshire and beyond.
