Thinking out loud here....Couple of questions. Did you check at the chiropracters to see if maybe he might have been in there before? You said the man was scraggly. Did he look homeless or destitute? If he was, he may have just wanted a puppy for himself (which means he will take care of Otis until you get him back). If he looked destitute, you might inquire at any local shelters for a regular with a new puppy.
Still sending prayers and hugs your way. We hate lost puppies! And especially stolen puppies!