A couple, who are my Herald colleagues, have lost a cat, as have several neighbors. There is a strong suspicion that someone is deliberately trying to kill pets. There are no words to describe how vile that is. Here's the info, from Cindy and Al:
Harmful Chemical is Poisoning Pets in NORTH Coral Gables. This morning, 01-23-08, our veterinarian called to report our pet cat Tangelo (left, with Bartek) died from chemical poisoning. A pathology report is being done to determine the exact cause of death. This is the fourth cat that we are aware of that has died a cruel and painful death by poisoning in our neighborhood.
Three independent veterinarians report the chemical antifreeze may have killed them but that is yet to be determined. Antifreeze has a sweet smell and taste. Please check your yards and automobiles for leaks or any open containers of harmful chemicals. Until this situation is resolved our children, pet dogs, cats and our abundant wildlife are potentially in danger.
Cruelty to animals is a Felony. Florida Statue 828.12: (2) A person who intentionally commits an act to any animal which results in the cruel death, or excessive or repeated infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering, or causes the same to be done, is guilty of a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082 or by a fine of not more than $10,000, or both.
(a) A person convicted of a violation of this subsection, where the finder of fact determines that the violation includes the knowing and intentional torture or torment of an animal that injures, mutilates, or kills the animal, shall be ordered to pay a minimum mandatory fine of $2,500 and undergo psychological counseling or complete an anger management treatment program.
(b) Any person convicted of a second or subsequent violation of this subsection shall be required to
pay a minimum mandatory fine of $5,000 and serve a minimum mandatory period of incarceration of 6 months. In addition, the person shall be released only upon expiration of sentence, shall not be eligible for parole, control release, or any form of early release, and must serve 100 percent of the court-imposed sentence. Any plea of nolo contendere shall be considered a conviction for purposes of this subsection.
These deaths have been reported to the Coral Gables Police Department and to the Miami-Dade Animal Service’s Department who are investigating these felonies.
Please report any animal abuse by dialing #311 or call Miami-Dade Police Department's Animal Service’s
Supervisor of Investigations Kathy Labrada at 305-884-1102.
A couple, who are my Herald colleagues, have lost a cat, as have several neighbors. There is a strong suspicion that someone is deliberately trying to kill pets. There are no words to describe how vile that is. Here's the info, from Cindy and Al:
