Footballer Daniel Sturridge has been ordered to pay 30,000 US dollars (£22,400) to a man who found his lost dog.
The former Liverpool striker said the pet was stolen from a house in Los Angeles in 2019 and offered a reward for its return.
The Pomeranian, named Lucci, was found by local musician Foster Washington who shared pictures on social media and helped reunite Sturridge with his dog.
A Los Angeles court has now ordered Sturridge to pay Washington 30,085 US dollars after he did not honour the reward.
Court documents obtained by the PA news agency show that a default judgment was given, meaning Sturridge did not answer to the complaint.
Los Angeles court documents ordering footballer Daniel Sturridge to pay musician Foster Washington 30,000 US dollars
Superior Court of California
Mr Washington, whose rapper name is Killa Fame, said he felt “let down” by Sturridge.
“Hopefully he pays up and doesn’t try to appeal it,” he told PA.
“I’m excited about it, I’ve been fighting this case for over a year, I can’t believe it’s over.
“When we found the dog I thought my life was going to be better.”
Mr Washington added he had yet to arrange the payment with Sturridge.
Representatives for Sturridge have been contacted for comment.
