Becker County ( trfnews.i234.me ) – A Detroit Lakes man is facing felony theft charges after authorities say he took property from a Frazee residence and demanded puppies in exchange for returning the items.
According to court records, Dominic Refugio Zaccardi, 49, of Detroit Lakes, was charged in Becker County District Court with felony theft.
The case began on May 20, when a Becker County deputy responded to a Frazee property. The homeowner reported that Zaccardi had taken several items for what he claimed were his kids. Among the stolen items were two chain saws, a car trailer, a PlayStation 3, multiple DeWalt power tools, an air compressor, a push mower, and a 10-speed mountain bike.
Court documents say that when the victim confronted Zaccardi, he sent a digital message saying he would only return the items if the man gave him puppies from his property.
At the time of the alleged theft, Zaccardi was already under release conditions in a separate felony theft case. Because of that, prosecutors requested a compliant warrant rather than a conditions-of-release-violation warrant. A warrant was later filed and served.
Zaccardi was released on August 7 without bail under standard conditions. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 15 before District Judge Michelle W. Lawson.
If convicted, Zaccardi could face significant prison time and fines under Minnesota’s felony theft statutes.
For more information on Minnesota theft laws, visit the Minnesota Legislature site.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
