Police hunting for woman who stole homeless man's rat

Chris and his beloved pet rat Lucy, who was allegedly ratnapped by this woman.
Chris and his beloved pet rat Lucy, who was allegedly ratnapped by this woman. Photo credit: Christina Colony/Facebook-Sydney Police Area Command

Sydney police have released CCTV images of a woman who allegedly stole a pet rat from a homeless man.

The rat, named Lucy, was taken from outside the Footlocker store on Pitt Street in the Australian city's CBD earlier this month.

Police are appealing for public assistance following the theft, which occurred when Lucy's owner Chris was using a nearby bathroom.

The theft has left Chris distraught and asking the public for help.

In a handwritten sign, Chris wrote: 'My pet rat Lucy was stolen on Saturday. Lucy is black and white with a bit of brown.'

Lucy had been left sitting on a milk crate. A woman approached the man's belongings and took the rat.

Police describe the woman as being of Caucasian appearance, aged in her late 30s or early 40s, of a slim build and with curly brown hair.

A well-known city fixture, people regularly stop to take photos with Lucy - who is reportedly trained to kiss people.

A GoFundMe page has been started to raise funds for Chris.

Newshub.