A Florida lawmaker is pushing for tougher penalties for those who abandon their pets during natural disasters, with the introduction of a new bill designed to protect animals in times of crisis.
Senate Bill 150, also known as "Trooper's Law," aims to make it a third-degree felony to restrain an animal and leave it outside during a hurricane or other natural disasters. The bill was inspired by the heartbreaking story of Trooper, a bull terrier found abandoned during Hurricane Milton last year.
Trooper garnered national attention after Florida Highway Patrol troopers found him tied to a fence along Interstate 75 near Tampa, with water rising up to his belly. The dog had been left behind as residents evacuated ahead of the storm. A video of the dramatic rescue went viral, sparking public outrage.
Trooper's former owner, 23-year-old Giovanny Aldama Garcia, was arrested and charged with aggravated animal cruelty. He faces up to five years in prison if convicted. According to reports, Garcia allegedly told authorities he abandoned Trooper because he "couldn't find anyone to pick the dog up." He has pleaded not guilty, and his case remains ongoing as of late February.
If passed, the bill would significantly increase penalties for those who abandon or neglect animals during a disaster.
Under the proposed law, people who confine an animal without providing sufficient food, water or exercise would face misdemeanor charges, punishable by jail time and a fine of up to $5,000.
More seriously, individuals who abandon a restrained animal during a natural disaster would be charged with a third-degree felony, carrying penalties of up to $10,000 in fines and imprisonment.
The bill, sponsored by Sen. Don Gaetz (R-Pensacola), received unanimous approval from the Florida Senate Criminal Justice Committee and next heads to the Committee on Agriculture.
If the legislation is approved, it would take effect on October 1, 2025.