Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis revealed this week that the former owner of a dog rescued by the Highway Patrol during Hurricane Milton has been found and will face animal cruelty charges.
DeSantis recounted how the dog was left chained to a post on the interstate as Hurricane Milton approached. Florida Highway Patrol officer Orlando Morales filmed the dog standing in water, unable to escape the fence as the storm hit.
The dog, now named “Trooper,” was rescued and taken to Tallahassee, where he will be adopted. DeSantis condemned the actions of the dog’s former owner, calling them “completely unacceptable.”
The owner, Giovanny Garcia, admitted to leaving the dog, formerly named Jumbo, on the interstate because he couldn’t find someone to care for it. Garcia has been charged with aggravated animal cruelty, with State Attorney Suzy Lopez handling the case.
DeSantis assured that the situation would be addressed, stating, “We said you’d be held accountable, and you will be held accountable.” The story of Trooper, which gained national attention, has left animal advocates outraged. After being rescued, Trooper was safely housed at the Leon County Humane Society.
