Subject:
Title
Proposed ratification of initiation of litigation in the case of Pinellas County v. Mary Holmes; County Court Case No. 24-009350-CO - petition for custody of cruelly or neglectfully treated animals.
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Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Ratification of the Chair’s approval of authority to initiate litigation against Mary Holmes.
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Strategic Plan:
N/A
Summary:
Summary
On October 24, 2024, Pinellas County Animal Services (PCAS) received a call from St. Petersburg Police Department regarding two (2) dogs and one (1) cat owned by Mary Holmes. The animals were extremely emaciated and based on the observed conditions of the animals, PCAS took the animals into custody.
In accordance with §828.073, Florida Statutes, a petition must be filed in County Court within ten (10) days after an animal seizure. Due to the time restraints set by law, approval to initiate litigation from the Board of County Commissioner’s Chair was sought pursuant to Resolution No. 21-23.
On October 28, 2024, Pinellas County filed an action to take custody and ownership of these animals and to enjoin the defendant from owning animals or, in the alternative, for the Court to enter an Order to Provide Care for the animals.
On November 21, 2024, the case was heard before a County Court Judge, Pinellas County was awarded custody of the animals, and Holmes was enjoined from harboring or possessing animals.
This item is now being brought to the County Commission for ratification, consistent with Resolution No. 21-23.
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Background Information:
N/A
Fiscal Impact:
Unknown.
Staff Member Responsible:
Jewel White, County Attorney
Amanda Coffey, Managing Assistant County Attorney
David Barrera, Assistant County Attorney
Partners:
Pinellas County Animal Services
St. Petersburg Police Department
Attachments:
N/A