Hamsters found in suspect's pants following Ohio store break-ins

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — A Columbus man was arrested early Tuesday following a bizarre string of break-ins at several stores in Hilliard.

Matthew Pancake is accused of breaking into the Famous Footwear shoe store on Hilliard-Rome Road just after 2 a.m. The police report alleges Pancake, 31, "busted out the glass to the front doors" of the store.

Pancake is also accused of breaking into a Petland store and a Roosters restaurant.

Police said two hamsters were recovered in the suspect's pants pockets. Also, when Pancake was found, he was wearing a leopard-print onesie, police said.

"It's very odd," Columbus Police Sgt. Joe Albert said. "Obviously, we don't know what this individual is going through."

Investigators also rounded up some puppies and birds that were discovered outside the store. One of the Petland owners told WSYX that some dog kennels were smashed with a rock.

A ferret and a bird were missing as well.

A veterinarian was expected to come to the pet store to examine some of the animals.

Pancake has been charged with vandalism and breaking and entering. He was due in court Wednesday morning.

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