Subject:
Title
Proposed ratification of initiation of litigation in the case of Pinellas County v. Nathan Walker; County Court Case No. 24-008035-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 Nathan Walker.
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Strategic Plan:
N/A
Summary:
Summary
On September 6, 2024, Pinellas County Animal Services (PCAS) received a call from Sunshine Animal Hospital regarding a dog owned by Nathan Walker. The animal was extremely emaciated and tested positive for hookworms. Records from the animal hospital indicate that care was offered for the animal and declined by the owner. Based on the observed conditions of the animal, PCAS took the animal 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 September 16, 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