Target: Amira D. Fox, State Attorney, 20th Judicial Circuit, Florida
Goal: Secure the maximum prison term, steep fines, mandatory counseling, and a lifelong animal-ownership ban for the person who allegedly left a German Shepherd to waste away in pain.
Bruce, a once-vigorous German Shepherd, was reportedly discovered with raw, ulcerated ears, ravaged skin infections, and severe muscle wasting. Investigators say his entire body told a story of prolonged torment: oozing lesions, untreated disease, and obvious misery. According to the probable-cause affidavit, the dog’s caretaker allowed these conditions to fester, causing “significant pain and discomfort” in violation of Florida’s animal-cruelty statutes.
Authorities subsequently charged the suspect with aggravated animal cruelty—a third-degree felony—and misdemeanor abandonment. In Florida, a felony conviction can carry up to five years behind bars and a $10,000 fine, yet offenders often receive minimal punishment. Given Bruce’s reported suffering, anything short of the stiffest penalty would dismiss the gravity of the harm inflicted.
A resolute sentence—substantial imprisonment, hefty restitution for veterinary costs, mandatory psychological evaluation, and a permanent prohibition on keeping animals—is essential. Such action would honor Bruce’s ordeal, protect future pets, and reinforce that Florida will not tolerate egregious neglect.
PETITION LETTER:
State Attorney Fox,
Animal Control officers reportedly found a German Shepherd named Bruce in a grievous state: ulcerated, infected ears; widespread skin disease; and advanced muscle wasting. Court records allege that his caretaker ignored these escalating conditions, subjecting Bruce to prolonged agony.
Aggravated animal cruelty is a felony because of the extreme suffering it inflicts. When an animal endures untreated infections and wasting flesh, society expects decisive legal protection. Permitting mild penalties in cases like Bruce’s signals indifference to blatant cruelty and fails to deter future abuse.
We respectfully urge your office to pursue the maximum sentence permitted by law, including incarceration, significant fines to cover Bruce’s medical care, compulsory counseling, and a lifelong ban on owning or residing with animals. A strong stance will demonstrate that Charlotte County values compassion and will act forcefully against those who betray it.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Hans Kemperman
