Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Giovanny Garcia, the former owner of a dog abandoned during Hurricane Milton, will face animal cruelty charges.
The dog, chained to a post on Interstate 75 and left in rising floodwaters, was rescued by Florida Highway Patrol officer Orlando Morales, who captured the heartbreaking scene on video.
Now named “Trooper,” the dog is safe in Tallahassee and awaiting adoption. DeSantis called the act “completely unacceptable” and vowed accountability, with State Attorney Suzy Lopez handling the case.
The story gained national attention, highlighting concerns over animal cruelty during emergencies.