By Alesha Capone
Police are investigating the theft of an inflatable Christmas decoration from the front garden of a Hoppers Crossing house last month.
Two men rode a white scooter motorcycle past the Parkside Walk residence around 10am on November 26.
The offenders stole a large inflatable dog, with presents on its back, as they rode past.
The two offenders fled the scene on the scooter, towards Carruthers Drive.
The scooter, with registration plates reading 1Z4FY, is believed to have been stolen from an address in Hoppers Crossing the day before.
The rider was wearing black clothing and a black helmet.
The passenger is described as Caucasian and was wearing black clothing and a red helmet.
Investigators have released CCTV and an image of two men who they believe will be able to assist with their inquiries.
The resident of the house from where the inflatable dog was stolen, Shannon, said his five year-old son was left devastated by the theft.
“He was pretty upset, it happened while he was at kindergarten,” Shannon said.
Shannon said that his girlfriend had given the inflatable dog to his son as a gift.
He said that he told his son that wind must have blown the inflatable away.
Shannon said he usually put up his Christmas decorations in December, but had decided to put them out early this year to help cheer up local children and families “after the year it’s been”.
Shannon said he has shared footage of the theft on local Facebook groups and has been surprised by the number of views it has received – around 20,000 in total.
He said one kind person has offered to replace the inflatable dog, with another which they happen to have in their possession.
“I appreciate that offer no end, but I don’t want to take it away from someone else,” Shannon said.
Anyone who recognises the men in the security footage or has information that could assist police with their investigation is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
