Caught On Tape: Designer Snake Stolen From Elk Grove Store

ELK GROVE (CBS13) – A Valentine's Day heist was caught on tape in Elk Grove as man is seen pocketing a designer snake worth nearly $500.

Surveillance video shows a couple walking into The Serpentarium on East Stockton Boulevard in Elk Grove on Tuesday around 11 a.m.

The woman is seen pointing to the cage holding a baby Bumblebee python, one of the most expensive snakes in the store.

"She's obviously the mastermind behind this whole thing because she points to this cage right here and of course the guy comes around and does his thing," said Robert Coral, owner of The Serpentarium.

Moments later, the man is seen fiddling with the lid of the cage, reaching in and grabbing the baby python and putting it in his pocket.

It doesn't appear that the couple ever noticed the cameras up all over the store even as they walk out.

"They are out in the open but they were focused on the snake not cameras," said Coral.

Coral said the Bumblebee Ball Python is a designer snake bred for its distinctive look. So either the pair know something about snakes or they were tempted by the price tag.

Either way, Coral hopes releasing the video helps him get the python back. He even says he won't press charges if the snake is returned unharmed.

But he's also offering a $100 cash reward for any information that leads to arrests.

Anyone who recognizes the couple is asked to contact the Elk Grove Police Department.

Another snake was stolen from the store a few months ago, according to Coral, and that's when he decided to put in security cameras.