Giovanny Aldama Garcia, a resident of Florida, was arrested on Monday for allegedly abandoning his pet dog during the devastating Hurricane Milton. Garcia is facing charges of aggravated animal cruelty, a third-degree felony, after admitting to leaving his white bull terrier, Jumbo, tethered to a fence along Interstate 75 as he sought refuge from the storm in Georgia.
The 23-year-old defended his actions, telling authorities that he had no other option but to leave Jumbo behind as he was unable to secure a caretaker for the dog. Hillsborough County State Attorney Suzy Lopez expressed her disapproval of Garcia’s actions and called for a review of the existing laws.
Lopez emphasized the seriousness of animal cruelty in Hillsborough County, stating that Garcia could face up to five years in prison for his actions. She added, “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 saved by Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Orlando Morales, who was notified by a passing motorist. Morales managed to locate the dog using a portable speaker. Despite Jumbo’s initial fear and aggression, Morales successfully rescued him from the rising floodwaters.
Following 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 intervened, arranging for Jumbo to be placed in a foster home in Tallahassee. The dog was renamed Trooper in recognition of his ordeal and the people who saved him.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis criticized Garcia’s actions, labeling them as “unacceptable.” He commended the efforts of the local authorities and State Attorney Lopez in arresting Garcia and holding him accountable for his actions.
Garcia, who was released from jail on a $2,500 cash bond, could face a maximum sentence of five years in prison for his felony charge. According to Lopez, he will not be permitted to reclaim Trooper.