Pet owner who left dog tied to fence before hurricane faces charges

As Hurricane Milton approached Florida, a video of a dog tied up near a highway sparked outrage on social media, prompting Gov. Ron DeSantis , R-Fla., to warn pet owners against such actions. DeSantis responded to the video of the dog rescue on social media, thanking the state trooper for saving the dog and saying that "FL will hold anyone who mistreats pets accountable."

On Tuesday, Oct. 15, DeSantis announced the state was delivering on that promise, saying, "I'm proud to announce that the authorities have identified the dog's former owner and State Attorney Suzy Lopez is now pursuing animal cruelty charges against the individuals."

Now, the dog's former owner, who authorities say admitted to tying his pet to the fence while evacuating, is charged with aggravated animal cruelty. 23-year-old Giovanny Aldama Garcia could face up to five years in prison if convicted of the crime.

The dog, now named "Trooper," was rescued by a state trooper near Tampa, Florida, and officials afterward said he was taken to the vet where he "received a clean bill of health."

Trooper is currently with a foster family in Tallahassee and will not be returned to Garcia.

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