Criminal Penalties For Animal Abuse And Neglect In Pinellas County

People often have a soft spot for animals. Allegations of animal abuse or neglect in Pinellas are typically met with a strong public outcry, a quick response from law enforcement, and passionate efforts on the part of prosecutors to ensure those convicted face the consequences. In the aftermath of a recent case involving dog fighting in Pinellas County that made headlines throughout the state, our Seminole criminal attorney explains more about these types of charges.

Police Bust Drug and Dog Fighting In Pinellas County 

The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office recently made a major bust. According to a July 24, 2024, Bay News report, over a dozen people were charged for an alleged drug trafficking ring, in which dog fighting was also involved.

‘Operation Snow Cap’ and ‘Operation Pedigree’ began in the summer of 2023, after the police received information about a drug trafficking ring in the Pinellas County area. They uncovered evidence pointing to the large-scale distribution of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl. They also uncovered evidence that the traffickers ran a dog-fighting ring as well.

Law enforcement recovered over 100 dogs used as part of dog fights in Florida and Georgia. While the pups were placed in a shelter and put up for adoption, the alleged perpetrators face multiple criminal charges. Under the Florida Statutes, penalties for dog biting in Pinellas County include mandatory counseling and anger management courses, a minimum of $10,000 in fines, and up to a five-year prison sentence for each charge.

Pinellas County Animal Abuse And Neglect 

Dog fighting rings make headlines and elicit a strong public outcry. However, animal abuse and neglect in Pinellas County can take a variety of other forms. This includes:

• Depriving an animal of adequate food or shelter;
• Depriving them of needed medical care for injuries;
• Intentionally mutilating them in any way;
• Improperly transporting animals in vehicles;
• Treating them in a cruel manner or contributing to their suffering.

Under Section 828.12 of the Florida Code, unintentionally mistreating, maiming, or otherwise causing cruel and inhumane harm to an animal is a misdemeanor crime, punishable by fines up to $5,000. The penalties become more severe if prosecutors can prove you acted intentionally or contributed to repeated pain and suffering on the part of the animal. You can face heavy fines, a permanent criminal record, and, as in the case above, a lengthy prison sentence.

To Prevent A Conviction, Contact Our Pinellas County Criminal Attorney Today

 Animal abuse and neglect charges in Pinellas County can stem from dog-fighting rings or other intentional acts. They can also involve otherwise innocent people who love animals and never meant to harm them. At The Reep Law Firm, we provide the professional legal representation you need to build a strong defense.

These types of charges often elicit a strong public outcry and can impact both your personal and professional life. To protect yourself and your legal rights, call or contact our Seminole criminal attorney online today and request a consultation.

Sources:

baynews9.com/fl/tampa/news/2024/07/24/arrests-made-in-multi-agency-narcotics-operation-and-dog-fighting-ring-bust-in-pinellas-county

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0800-0899/0828/Sections/0828.122.html

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0800-0899/0828/Sections/0828.12.html