This Sneaky Tonkinese Cat Stole 15+ Things From Neighbors And They Still Adore Him

In a quiet suburb of Auckland, a clever Tonkinese cat named Leonardo Da Pinchy has become a local celebrity — thanks to his hilarious habit of stealing laundry. From socks and gloves to luxury clothing and even a giant 1.5-meter toy snake, Leo’s stash of stolen goods keeps growing.

It all started when Leo, as a kitten, became obsessed with his owner’s socks. But now, at just 16 months old, he’s turned into a full-time thief — sometimes bringing home up to nine stolen items a day. His secret? He waits for fresh laundry to hang outside, then strikes quickly and vanishes with whatever he can carry — even your underwear.

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Meet Leonardo Da Pinchy: 16 months old, soft as silk, and wanted for over 150 counts of theft

It started small, just his human dad’s socks, tossed proudly around the lounge at 10 weeks old

At 6 months, he was allowed outside. Within days, he began raiding the neighborhood

Helen North, Leo’s owner, told Bored Panda that everything started when he turned 6 months old and was finally allowed outside. Right away, he began dragging home socks—lots of them.

As time went on, Leo expanded his “collection” to include all kinds of laundry, especially on weekends when neighbors hang their clothes out to dry. “On a busy day, he can bring home 3 or 4 items in a row,” Helen said. “His biggest haul was 9 pieces in one sunny Sunday—it seemed like the whole street had their laundry out, and he had the time of his life!”

From socks to boxer shorts and baby clothes, Leo’s stealing spree has become a funny, ongoing tradition—one that the neighborhood has come to expect and enjoy.

Underwear, hats, gardening gloves, even baby clothes. Leo’s haul now lives in a dedicated laundry basket

Leonardo’s taste in stolen goods has evolved over time, says Helen. “He used to go for socks, but now he’s obsessed with underwear—especially men’s boxer shorts.” He also has a soft spot for merino clothing, including pants, hoodies, and even baby clothes.

But his most surprising favorite? Gardening gloves. “He’s brought home dozens of them,” Helen shared. “Neighbors have even seen him hiding in their yards, waiting for someone to take their gloves off!”

His odd little habits have made him a local legend—and a favorite among fans of quirky cat behavior and funny pet stories.

Leonardo’s nighttime adventures are on pause—his owners keep him safely indoors from dusk to 7 a.m. to prevent roaming and fights with other cats. But during the day, his playful crime spree continues.

“All his stealing happens in daylight,” said Helen. “Thankfully, our neighbors love him and see him as a real character.” His charm and quirky personality have made him a favorite in the neighborhood—and a star among fans of funny cat stories online.

His human, Helen, created a neighborhood WhatsApp group to return the loot. It’s part true crime, part treasure hunt

He once stole a brand new $300 merino jersey from inside a neighbor’s house

According to owner Helen North, Leonardo doesn’t make a big deal about his stolen ‘treasures’. “He just drops them on the floor—no pride, no celebration,” she shared. “Then he usually heads right back out to find more. He seems to enjoy the thrill of the steal, always chasing that feeling.”

It’s this funny, mischievous behavior that makes Leonardo such a lovable and unforgettable cat. His nonstop “cat burglar” routine has turned him into a neighborhood icon—and a viral sensation among pet lovers online.

After a full day of hunting boxer shorts, Leo recharges like any respectable thief—in a sunbeam

When Leonardo Da Pinchy isn’t busy stealing laundry, he’s the ultimate lap cat, says his owner, Helen. “He’s super affectionate and loves being part of everything we do. He purrs like a tractor and always wants to be near us.”

Like most cats, Leo enjoys soaking up the sun—especially after a long day of hunting for underwear and other ‘treasures’. Despite his sneaky habits, he’s a sweet and lovable pet that brings joy and laughs to everyone around him.

Despite his crimes, the neighborhood loves him. Let’s be honest—he’s the most entertaining neighbor they’ve got