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Detroit 4-H’s Stolen Show Birds Recovered After Anonymous Tip

An anonymous tip led volunteers with police to a nearby vacant lot where the birds were found, spurring a police investigation alongside a nonprofit campaign to strengthen coop security.

Overview

  • Two break-ins at the Full Circle Foundation coop over the Fourth of July weekend resulted in 10 chickens taken on July 3 and the remaining chickens plus two geese stolen on July 5.
  • Volunteers followed a tip Wednesday evening to a vacant lot on Audubon Road off E. Warren where Detroit police helped recover all 22 chickens and two geese from a makeshift coop; the animals were healthy.
  • The birds were show animals raised by the Ribbon Farms 4-H Club, including some ribbon-winning chickens, and their theft disrupted youth preparing for fairs and competitions.
  • Property owner Pat Whittaker said contractors found a coop built with boards taken from her vacant lot and neighbors reported teens caring for the birds at the site.
  • Detroit police are investigating and the Full Circle Foundation is soliciting donations to repair fencing, install cameras, and restock or secure the flock to protect its educational programs.