A Florida man, Giovanny Aldama Garcia, was arrested on charges of aggravated animal cruelty for allegedly tying his dog to a fence and abandoning it as Hurricane Milton approached the state. State attorney Suzy Lopez is pursuing the charges against Garcia, who admitted to leaving his dog on the highway as he evacuated the state in anticipation of the hurricane. No attorney was listed for Garcia, who was released on bond. Lopez expressed the seriousness with which animal cruelty is taken in Hillsborough County, stating that the defendant could face up to five years in prison for his actions. She also hopes lawmakers will consider changing the law to allow for harsher penalties in cases of animal abandonment during emergencies.
The investigation into the case is active and ongoing, with no further information available at this time. Florida Highway Patrol officers found the dog, now known as Trooper, in floodwaters on Interstate-75 in Tampa as residents were evacuating due to Hurricane Milton. Trooper was safe and healthy after being taken to the vet by FHP officers. Trooper was facing imminent death when he was found, highlighting the severity of the situation. Garcia claimed to investigators that he abandoned his dog because he couldn’t find anyone to pick him up while on his way to Georgia. The dog will not be returned to Garcia, and efforts are being made to ensure his safety and well-being.
Despite Garcia’s attempts to claim the dog after his abandonment, authorities have stated that Trooper will not be returned to him. The Leon County Sheriff’s Office is now caring for the dog. Garcia’s phone numbers and emails went unanswered when attempts were made to reach him for comment. State Attorney Suzy Lopez believes that a five-year prison sentence may not be enough for his actions and hopes that this case will prompt discussions about harsher penalties for those who abandon animals during emergencies. The Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles expressed gratitude towards Lopez and her team for their support during this state of emergency.
The case of Trooper highlights the importance of taking animal cruelty seriously and holding those accountable for their actions. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles commended the actions of the FHP officers who rescued Trooper and ensured his safety. The dog’s welfare is paramount, and efforts are being made to provide him with the care and support he needs. Garcia’s alleged actions have sparked outrage and calls for stricter laws against animal cruelty, with State Attorney Suzy Lopez leading the charge for harsher penalties. The investigation into the case continues, with authorities dedicated to ensuring justice for Trooper and holding Garcia accountable for his actions.
