Daniel Sturridge denies wrongdoing after US arrest warrant issued for stolen dog fiasco

Former Liverpool and England striker Daniel Sturridge has been issued an arrest warrant after failing to pay a $30,000 reward for someone returning his dog.

Picture – Instagram @DanielSturridge

In July 2019, Sturridge had his dog stolen in the Los Angeles area and offered a significant financial reward on social media for the safe return.

Picture – Instagram @Luccidapoochie

The former Premier League striker was living in Los Angeles at the time and was desperate for the return of his Pomeranian called Lucci.

Picture – Instagram @Luccidapoochie

Lucci was soon returned to the former England man, and he admitted that a financial reward had already been given to a child who found the dog.

Foster Washington, an American rapper who goes by the name 'Killa Fame,' believes he found the dog and didn't receive the $30,000 that Sturridge promised on his social media.

In December 2021, a Los Angeles court ordered Sturridge to pay Washington $30,000, following a default judgment, as Sturridge didn't respond to the complaint.

Sturridge was called back to the court for a debtors exam, in which his finances were supposed to be checked, but he did not attend.

After failing to attend the court again, a judge has served a bench warrant to arrest a defendant and bring them before the court.

After being served an arrest warrant for failing to pay Washington the £30,000 for rescuing his dog, Sturridge has been quick to defend himself on social media.

According to @DanielSturridge on X, his statement reads: "The news yesterday was the first time my family and I heard that someone is continuing to try and get money from me, following the theft of my dog."

"The truth is, I personally paid a reward to a young boy who found." He added, "The person seeking payment is not due any money."

"I was unaware of the court hearing even taking place. The legal paperwork was sent to the Air BnB property, which we had left within 24 hours of the burglary."

The former England player has now instructed Californian lawyers to deal with the case on his behalf, and he believes the case will be sorted out swiftly.

In the wake of his arrest warrant, Sky Sports has confirmed that Sturridge will keep his job as a pundit despite being sought by authorities in the United States.

Sky has insisted that his lack of screen time in recent weeks has been due to Sturridge's other commitments and not relating to any legal issues.

The news that he will return to Sky's screens is good for viewers, with the former England man bringing a young and charismatic approach to his analytical role with the company.