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July 19--ALTADENA, Calif -- Two robbery suspects ran into an unexpected obstacle during a hold-up at a cigar shop in Altadena -- a crime-fighting Chihuahua.
Deputies say the men entered Ace Smoke Shop on North Lake Avenue ordered the clerk to give them his money.
The clerk complied, putting his cash in a backpack brought by the robbers.
Just as the suspects were about to leave, the owner's pet Chihuahua, Poco, attacked the men by barking and jumping on them.
One of the suspects appeared so threatened by the pint-sized protector that he pointed his rifle at it.
The suspects hurriedly fled the location on foot, last seen running southbound on Maiden Lane from Mariposa Street, with the victim's money in their backpack and the dog chasing after them.
The robbery victim and the dog were not injured.
The men are described as male Hispanics, between 18 and 25 years old, between 5'06"-5'10" and 150-180 pounds.
One was wearing a black, hooded sweatshirt; white shorts; black shoes; and a red bandanna; carrying a black/gray backpack.
The second was wearing a black jacket with yellow trim, dark shirt, dark pants and a black ski mask. He was armed with a rifle.
Sheriff's detectives are asking for the public's assistance in identifying the suspects.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Detective Binder at 626-296-2114 or 626-798-1131.
If you prefer to provide information ANONYMOUSLY, you may call "Crime Stoppers" by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637
