Target: Brian Haas, State Attorney for the 10th Judicial Circuit of Florida
Goal: Secure the maximum felony sentence and a lifelong ban on animal ownership for the individual who allegedly starved and neglected two innocent dogs until they were near death.
A detective reportedly discovered two dogs—Stella, a Great Dane, and Bella, a terrier mix—suffering in a home. Stella allegedly weighed barely half her normal weight and scored a one out of nine on a veterinary body-condition scale. Her paws were said to be swollen and covered in cuts, scabs, and fleas. Bella was reportedly hairless in patches, her skin inflamed, and her body-condition score only marginally higher at two out of nine. According to authorities, both animals were desperately hungry and riddled with untreated medical issues.
Investigators claim the dogs’ owner failed to provide adequate food, shelter, or medical care, leaving the animals to languish in apparent agony. A veterinarian’s exam purportedly confirmed the extent of the starvation and infection each dog endured. Even now, Stella must slowly regain weight under constant veterinary supervision, while Bella receives treatment for severe skin disease.
Seemingly cruel neglect of this magnitude should never be excused with minimal penalties. Meaningful punishment—strict incarceration, hefty fines, mandatory psychological evaluation, and a permanent prohibition on possessing animals—will help ensure these dogs obtain true justice and will act as a powerful deterrent against future abuse. Sign below to demand that prosecutors pursue the toughest sentence allowable under Florida law.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear State Attorney Haas,
Two dogs, Stella and Bella, were reportedly found in deplorable condition inside the residence of their caretaker. Stella, a Great Dane, allegedly weighed about half of her ideal weight and received a one out of nine body-condition score. Veterinarians further documented cuts, scabs, extensive flea infestation, and swelling on every paw. Bella, a terrier mix, purportedly suffered hair loss, inflamed skin, and only marginally better weight.
Such extreme deprivation points to an extended period of neglect. The accused now faces charges of aggravated animal cruelty and animal cruelty. Given the grave nature of the allegations, any lenient plea or minimal penalty would undermine the suffering these dogs seemingly endured and signal tolerance for similar acts.
We respectfully urge your office to pursue the maximum felony penalties for each cruelty count, to seek restitution for all medical costs, and to request a lifetime ban on the defendant owning or caring for animals. A decisive sentence will protect future pets and affirm that deliberate, prolonged cruelty will never be met with mere slaps on the wrist in this circuit.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Efrem Efre
