FREE PRESS (Detroit, Michigan) 16 July 07 White turtle stolen from vet now safe at home (Christy Arboscello)
Nate became part of the Bankstahl family two years ago.
Shipped to Michigan from Arizona, the hatchling African Sulcata, a rare ivory tortoise, was an anniversary gift to veterinarian Tom Bankstahl from his wife, Julie.
This summer, Nate spent time inside a pen behind the vet’s practice, Parkway Small Animal and Exotic Hospital in Clinton Township. It wasn’t unusual for pet owners to sneak a peek of him. His lighter shade made him a standout among 17 other rescued tortoises.
Unfortunately, it also made him a standout to thieves.
On June 27, township police were called to the hospital to take a report that the tortoise, worth nearly $4,000, was stolen.
“I certainly didn’t think he would come back,” Bankstahl said today.
But officers were suspicious that a couple young men asked employees at the business how to care for the animal before he disappeared. Eventually, their investigation led them to an 18-year-old township man’s home. When police got there, his parents cooperated and they recovered Nate, who wasn’t harmed, Capt. Richard Maierle said today.
The suspect hasn’t been charged with the theft at this time. He is facing separate charges for an incident in St. Clair Shores, Maierle said.
Meanwhile, Nate is back home. But one rule has changed: “He doesn’t go in the outdoor pen now without supervision,” Bankstahl said with a laugh.
White turtle stolen from vet now safe at home

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