The 'Soldier Act' could have the leaving of reserved dogs done during the disaster in Florida

Tallahasse, Florida (WCTV/Gray Florida Capital Bureau) – Legislators in Florida are on the right track to tighten the sentences for people who bind their dogs out during a hurricane or a natural disaster.

A house committee signed five months after State Troopers found a dog along the I-75 when Hurricane Milton approached Tampa. The purpose of the invoice is to ensure that dogs are protected in natural disasters.

A body camera of the Florida Highway Patrol shows a State soldier that saves a bull terrier, which is later called in honor of his rescuer, which was tied up along the I-75 in Hillsborough County when Hurricane Milton was to meet last year. The video triggered national outrage.

“What kind of animal would only have one dog chained in the middle of a hurricane? It is only incredible that someone would do that, ”said governor Ron Desantis during a press conference in the State Emergency Operations Center on October 9, 2024.

“I can't imagine that someone does something that you love and does all that has life. It's really cruel. It's sad. It is really sad, ”said Rep. Grifft Grifft (R) Panama City Beach.

Politics in Florida:

Therefore, Rep. Griffitt pushes the adoption of “Troopers Law”, named after the dog. It would make it a crime to hold a dog back outside during a natural disaster. If this had been signed in a law, this would mean a five-year prison sentence and a fine of $ 10,000.

“The punishments were clearly not serious enough to believe that it was okay. The prosecutor in Südflorida said we need stricter punishments when people do stupid things, ”said Rep. Griffitt.

A second house committee unanimously presented the bill on Thursday morning.

“It is a little worrying that we need it, but we do it,” said Kate Macfall, director of the Humane Society of America.

Macfall said that she had advanced similar laws for several years.

“Trooper is a great example in this tragic situation. Fortunately, he is now in a beautiful home and is doing well, very well, ”said Macfall.

Governor Ron Desantis is expected to sign this calculation if you can do his desk.

Giovanny Aldama Garcia is charged with abandoned soldiers in the Hillsborough County. He should be back to court on March 31.

Trooper has been adopted and now thrives with his new family.

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