Amazon has banned a delivery worker after he was allegedly caught on camera stealing a pet cat from outside a residence in California, an incident that has sparked outrage online and prompted a police investigation.

Theft caught on doorbell camera

The incident occurred on December 11, when the delivery worker arrived at a home to drop off a package. Doorbell camera footage shows the man petting a Siamese mix cat named Piper, before picking her up and walking away.

The video, later shared widely on social media, drew sharp criticism and revived online misinformation narratives, even as authorities clarified that the case was being treated as pet theft.

Amazon takes action

Confirming action against the worker, Amazon spokesperson Louie Tran said the individual had been permanently banned from delivering through Amazon Flex.

“This was a horrible act, and we’ve apologised to Ms Huff-Medina,” Tran said. “The delivery partner is no longer eligible to deliver to our customers. We are cooperating fully with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office and supporting their investigation.”

Owner appeals for cat’s return

The cat’s owner, Diane Huff-Medina, said Piper is microchipped but was not wearing her collar at the time. She only realised the cat was missing the next day after reviewing her Ring doorbell footage.

“It’s a helpless feeling because we watched her get taken,” Huff-Medina said. “I don’t know where she is or if she’s OK. I just want my cat back — for myself and especially for my kids.”

She added that Piper, who lived both indoors and outdoors, appeared to be resisting when the man picked her up.

Suspect identified, charges expected

Police confirmed that the suspect, a 37-year-old man, has been identified, though his name has not been released. Authorities said the man claimed he believed the cat was a stray and that the animal later jumped out of his truck.

However, Huff-Medina disputed this version, saying the footage suggested Piper was taken forcefully. As of now, the cat has not been recovered, and police said charges are expected.

Wider concerns raised

The incident has raised concerns about trust, accountability and pet safety, particularly involving doorstep deliveries. Animal welfare advocates have urged pet owners to ensure collars and ID tags are always used, even for microchipped pets.