Target: County Attorney Denise A. Dymond Lyn, Florida
A disturbing case of alleged animal cruelty has come to light in Dunnellon, Florida, where a Citrus County man, Joshua Sirmons, has been accused of keeping 12 animals in deplorable conditions. Deputies responding to an unrelated call at Sirmons’ home reportedly discovered multiple wired crates in the kitchen, filled with animal feces and two small dogs stained with urine, left without food or water. The horrific scene extended throughout the home, where six more dogs, two cats, a tortoise, and a large bird were apparently living in equally appalling conditions.
According to the sheriff’s office, the home was filled with filth and clutter, with months-old litter boxes, a tortoise enclosure infested with roaches, and a birdcage lined with several inches of feces and debris. The animals were reportedly suffering from untreated medical conditions, malnutrition, and neglect. When questioned, Sirmons reportedly admitted to having more dogs that had died earlier in the year and suggested the dogs could drink from the toilet if they were thirsty. Such apparent disregard for the animals’ well-being is a violation of animal welfare laws and has resulted in charges of felony aggravated animal cruelty against Sirmons.
This case highlights the urgent need for legal accountability to prevent future incidents of animal neglect and abuse. It is imperative that the Citrus County District Attorney takes decisive action to prosecute Joshua Sirmons under the full extent of the law and provide him mental health treatment, if needed. Bring justice for the animals reportedly affected to serve it as a deterrent against similar mistreatment in the future.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Denise A. Dymond Lyn,
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent case of alleged animal cruelty involving Joshua Sirmons, who has been accused of keeping 12 animals in appalling conditions at his home in Dunnellon. According to reports, deputies discovered two small dogs in crates filled with feces, six more dogs running loose in a filthy and cluttered home, as well as two cats, a tortoise, and a large bird, all living in conditions that posed severe health risks.
The animals were reportedly suffering from malnutrition, untreated medical conditions, and severe neglect. The tortoise was apparently found in an enclosure infested with roaches and without a functioning heat lamp, and the birdcage was lined with inches of feces and debris. Sirmons’ reported admission that he allowed the dogs to drink from the toilet if they were thirsty further demonstrates his apparent disregard for the well-being of these animals. This suspected behavior is a clear violation of animal welfare laws and reflects a disturbing lack of care and compassion.
I urge you to pursue this case with the utmost seriousness and to ensure that Joshua Sirmons is held accountable for his alleged actions under the law and that he receives mental health treatment. By taking strong legal action, you will send a clear message that animal cruelty and neglect will not be tolerated and that those responsible will face appropriate consequences. It is essential that we protect the rights and welfare of all animals and ensure that justice is served for those who have suffered.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: tciriello
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