A man in Florida was arrested on Monday for leaving his terrified bull terrier tied to a fence during Hurricane Milton in central Florida. Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez confirmed that Giovanny Aldama Garcia has been charged with aggravated animal cruelty.
A possible consequence for the charge, classified as a third-degree felony, is a jail sentence of up to 5 years along with a fine of $5,000. Garcia, who is 23 years old, confessed to abandoning his terrified dog, Jumbo, on Interstate 75 while he hurried to Georgia for safety from the approaching storm.
Explaining his actions, Garcia stated that he left his loyal companion behind because he was unable to find someone to take care of the dog.
Lopez strongly condemned the man’s actions and urged politicians to take action in reforming the existing laws. “In Hillsborough County, we have a zero-tolerance policy towards animal cruelty.
This individual has been charged with a felony and may face a maximum of five years imprisonment for his reprehensible behavior,” stated Lopez.
“I personally believe that the current punishment is insufficient. It is my hope that legislators thoroughly examine this case and engage in conversations regarding the amendment of the law to impose more severe consequences on individuals who abandon their pets during times of emergency,” she expressed. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also criticized Garcia’s behavior.
During a Tuesday news conference, Governor DeSantis expressed his outrage at the mistreatment of the dog, stating, “When this poor dog was left out there, we said… we’re going to nail you when we find out who did it.”
He commended State Attorney Lopez and the Hillsborough County authorities for their diligent efforts in holding the responsible party accountable.
A Florida police officer, who was determined to ensure the safety of as many residents as possible, recently carried out a daring rescue mission after being alerted about a terrified dog.
In the footage, the officer can be seen braving increasingly dangerous conditions as he steps out of his patrol vehicle and approaches the dog, who appeared wet, tired, and utterly miserable.
In the viral video, officers can be seen trying to comfort the pup as it sits in a puddle of water. As one officer approaches the dog, they reassure it, saying, “It’s okay buddy, it’s okay, it’s okay.” The officer empathizes with the dog, adding, “I don’t blame you,” as the bull terrier lets out a series of barks.
A user suggested that the owner and troopers should tie them to the pole and leave them. However, the Leon County Humane Society decided to take custody of the dog and named him “Trooper” in recognition of the challenges he has faced and to pay tribute to those who rescued him from the devastating storm.