Do People really Steal Dogs?

Do you know anyone who had their dog stolen?

lady in my aunt's building had her two Pekingese dogs stolen. Her husband was walking them and this man approached and asked what breed they were. He then cut their lead and ran away with the dogs. This was in NYC btw.

I have a tiny yorkie and get approached constantly with my dog. She's very friendly and always wags her tail and jumps up and down when people pass, so the majority of people end up commenting on her or asking to pet her.

My mom keeps worrying me by saying someone is going to steal her lol