Man Faces Five Years in Prison After Abandoning Dog Tied to Fence During Hurricane Milton

Ruskin, Florida – Giovanny Aldama Garcia is a 23-year-old from Hillsborough County. He is facing up to five years in prison. This follows a viral video of his abandoned dog being rescued by Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) officers.

Garcia has been charged with aggravated animal cruelty. He tied his bull terrier to a fence as Hurricane Milton approached. This left the animal in life-threatening conditions. The incident took place on October 9, along Interstate 75 in Tampa, Florida, just hours before the hurricane made landfall.

Viral Video Sparks Outrage

The FHP video shows the terrified bull terrier. Now named “Trooper,” the dog was tied to a fence and chest-deep in floodwater. Troopers bravely rescued the dog as they assisted with emergency evacuations, bringing attention to the severity of the situation. The video quickly gained traction on social media, leading to widespread outrage.

The State Attorney is pursuing the maximum sentence.

Thirteenth Circuit State Attorney Suzy Lopez is prosecuting the case. She stated that Trooper was facing “certain death” had the officers not intervened. Garcia fled Florida ahead of the hurricane, later claiming he couldn’t find anyone to care for his pet. According to reports, he sought to reclaim the dog after the storm but was denied custody.

Lopez emphasized the seriousness of animal cruelty in Hillsborough County. She stated, “This defendant could face up to five years in prison. However, I believe more severe penalties are needed for those who abandon animals during a crisis.” She urged lawmakers to consider stronger penalties for such actions during states of emergency.

Ongoing Investigation

The dog is now safe and healthy. It remains under the care of local authorities. The dog will not be returned to Garcia. Investigators continue to look into the case. The Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Department confirms that the investigation remains active.

Garcia has since been released on bail, but his legal battle is far from over. The story of Trooper’s rescue serves as a stark reminder. It highlights the importance of responsible pet ownership, especially during natural disasters.

Related: State Trooper Braves Rising Flood Waters to Rescue Abandoned Dog During Hurricane Milton