Subject:
Title
Initiation of litigation in the case of Pinellas County v. Trivia Reid and John Brown; County Court Case No. 18-007524-CO-41 - animal seizure.
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Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Ratification of authority to initiate litigation in the case of Pinellas County v. Trivia Reid and John Brown; County Court Case No. 18-007524-CO-41.
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Strategic Plan:
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Summary:
Animal Control Code Enforcement Officers from Pinellas County Animal Services (PCAS) have been dispatched to the subject property several times for complaints regarding the welfare and condition of a dog named “Diamond.” Over the course of a year, Diamond’s welfare and condition has progressively deteriorated despite PCAS’s efforts to provide assistance to the Respondents. On August 31, 2018, an Officer from PCAS conducted a follow-up visit where Diamond was found sitting in a wire crate in the yard with no access to shelter or water. The Officer assessed Diamond and determined the dog to be in poor condition. Attempts were made to contact the Respondents; however, both phone numbers on file were disconnected.
Diamond was lawfully taken into custody in the presence of officers from the St. Petersburg Police Department. Upon examination by a veterinarian, Diamond’s poor condition was confirmed.
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 and approved. Pinellas County has now filed an action to take custody and ownership of Diamond from Trivia Reed and John Brown and enjoin them from owning the dog, or in the alternative, for the Court to enter an Order to Provide Care to Diamond.
Background Information:
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Fiscal Impact:
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Staff Member Responsible:
Jewel White, County Attorney
Brijesh Patel, Assistant County Attorney
Partners:
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Attachments:
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