Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced on Tuesday that the former owner of a dog rescued during Hurricane Milton has been arrested and will face animal cruelty charges. The incident occurred when the dog was left chained to a post on Interstate 75 as the storm approached, a decision DeSantis called “totally unacceptable.”
During a press conference at the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, DeSantis explained that the dog, unable to move, was found standing in a pool of water by Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) Trooper Orlando Morales. The trooper captured a video of the scene, showing the dog helplessly tied to a fence as Hurricane Milton barreled toward the coast.
The dog, initially named Jumbo, has since been renamed “Trooper” in honor of his rescuer. Trooper is now safe and in Tallahassee, where he will be adopted, according to the governor.
DeSantis emphasized that the dog’s former owner, Giovanny Garcia, had been identified and would be held accountable for his actions. State Attorney Suzy Lopez has been assigned to the case and will be pursuing aggravated animal cruelty charges. Garcia admitted to authorities that he abandoned the dog while evacuating from the hurricane, claiming he couldn’t find anyone to take the pet.
“We said you’d be held accountable, and you will be held accountable,” DeSantis declared during the press conference.
The story of Trooper’s rescue quickly gained national attention, sparking outrage among animal lovers and advocates. Many were shocked by the callousness of the act, especially during such a dangerous time. Animal rights groups applauded the swift action taken by authorities to ensure justice for Trooper.
In a statement, the Leon County Humane Society confirmed that the dog was safe at their facility following the rescue. Trooper’s story has since become a symbol of resilience and the importance of protecting animals during natural disasters.
Governor DeSantis made it clear that such neglect and cruelty would not be tolerated in Florida, especially in times of crisis. As the legal process moves forward, animal rights advocates are hopeful that the case will serve as a reminder of the responsibilities pet owners have to their animals, even in difficult circumstances.