Worcester

Son of Massachusetts Congressional Candidate Accused of Stealing Puppy

The son of a Massachusetts congressional candidate is accused of stealing a puppy from a shelter in East Brookfield.

Alexander Lovvorn, 19, of Grafton, was arraigned Wednesday on a single count of larceny in connection with the theft of a two-month-old Labrador mix puppy named Mickey at the Second Chance Animal Shelter.

Investigators say a young couple came in Tuesday looking to adopt a puppy. When they were told all the puppies had been adopted, the couple asked to play with them.

"The female went outside on her phone, a few minutes later the male came back in and let all the puppies loose within the building," said office manager Lisa Blodgett.

Authorities believe the man, later identified as Lovvorn, handed Mickey over a fence to the young woman and then walked out as staff members tried to corral the puppies. They then realized one was missing.

Blodgett ran outside and saw the puppy inside the couple's car and quickly took down the license plate, which led police to 2nd District Congressional candidate Tracy Lovvorn, R-Grafton, who is challenging longtime state Rep. James McGovern, D-Worcester.

"I think they contacted a family member whose car it was and they were able to get the animal back," said Sheryl Blancato, CEO of Second Chance Animal Shelter.

Police took Lovvorn's son into custody and returned the dog to the shelter.

Tracy Lovvorn said in a statement, "My youngest son, Alexander was accused of allegedly taking a puppy from a shelter yesterday afternoon. To be clear, he was responsible for bringing the puppy to the shelter on his own accord, he loves pets, and would never intentionally hurt an animal."

Investigators are still trying to identify the young woman who was with Lovvorn at the shelter.

"It's sad because then you think if someone has to steal a puppy then they can't afford to take care of that puppy," Blodgett said.

Lovvorn was released on personal recognizance and ordered to stay away from the shelter. He's due back in court Dec. 13.

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