Subject:
Title
Proposed ratification of initiation of litigation in the case of Pinellas County v. Sha’Von Hinson; County Court Case No. 24-011144-CO - petition for custody of cruelly or neglectfully treated animals.
label
Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Ratification of the Chair’s approval of authority to initiate litigation against Sha’Von Hinson.
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Strategic Plan:
N/A
Summary:
Summary
On December 13, 2024, Pinellas County Animal Services (PCAS) received a call advising animals were tethered at 3721 8th Avenue South, Saint Petersburg, 33711, in violation of county ordinance. PCAS advised the owner of tethering requirements within the County. On December 18, 2024, Animal Services Officer (ASO) performed a follow up inspection and observed multiple animals confined to crates of inappropriate size. The animals appeared in distress, they were underweight, covered in urine stains, no access to water, and surrounded by their own feces. PCAS impounded the animals.
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 December 23, 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.
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
Attachments:
N/A