Giovanny Aldama Garcia, a Florida resident, was apprehended on Monday for abandoning his dog during the onslaught of Hurricane Milton. Garcia was charged with aggravated animal cruelty, a third-degree felony, after he confessed to leaving his white bull terrier, Jumbo, tied to a fence on the side of Interstate 75 while he fled to Georgia to escape the storm.
The 23-year-old explained to authorities that he had no choice but to leave Jumbo behind as he was unable to find anyone who could take care of the dog. Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez criticized Garcia’s actions and called for a revision of the current laws.
Lopez stated, “In Hillsborough County, we take animal cruelty very seriously. This defendant is charged with a felony and could face up to five years in prison for his actions. Quite frankly, I don’t think that is enough. Hopefully, lawmakers take a look at this case and discuss changing the law to allow for harsher penalties for people who abandon their animals during a state of emergency.”
Jumbo was rescued by Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Orlando Morales, who was alerted by a passing driver. Morales searched for the dog, eventually locating him using a portable speaker. Despite the dog’s initial fear and aggression, Morales was able to rescue him from the rising floodwaters.
After the rescue, Jumbo was taken to a veterinarian for a check-up and was found to be in good health. The Leon County Humane Society then stepped in, arranging for Jumbo to be placed in a foster home in Tallahassee. The dog was renamed Trooper in honor of his ordeal and the people who saved him.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis condemned Garcia’s actions, calling them “unacceptable.” He praised the efforts of the local authorities and State Attorney Lopez in apprehending Garcia and holding him accountable for his actions.
Garcia, who was released from jail on a $2,500 cash bond, faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison for his felony charge. He will not be allowed to reclaim Trooper, according to Lopez.