In a heart-wrenching incident, a man named Giovanny Aldama Garcia has been charged with aggravated animal cruelty after abandoning his dog, Jumbo, in floodwaters just before Hurricane Milton struck Florida. Police bodycam footage captured the moment the white bull terrier, later renamed Trooper, was found tied to a fence, standing in knee-deep water on Interstate-75. Florida Highway Patrol Trooper Orlando Morales rescued the terrified dog, despite its growling and barking.
Garcia claimed that he “couldn’t find anyone to pick the dog up” before fleeing the area, leaving Trooper to face the deadly hurricane. His excuse has drawn widespread outrage, with many people calling for harsh penalties. Garcia was arrested on October 14 and now faces up to five years in prison for third-degree felony animal cruelty. Despite the dire situation, Garcia reportedly attempted to reclaim the dog from a shelter after the hurricane but has since agreed to give up ownership.
FHP Troopers rescued a dog left tied to a pole on I-75 near Bruce B Downs Blvd this morning. Do NOT do this to your pets please… pic.twitter.com/8cZJOfkJL2
— FHP Tampa (@FHPTampa) October 9, 2024
Trooper, now safe and recovering, has become a symbol of resilience. His story has touched the hearts of many, with social media users praising Trooper’s bravery and the officer who saved him. Authorities emphasized that animal cruelty is taken seriously in Hillsborough County, and they are continuing the investigation into Garcia’s actions.
