Subject:
Title
Proposed ratification of initiation of litigation in the case of Pinellas County v. Christina Leverone and John Ryan; County Court Case No. 22-000398-CO-42 - animal cruelty.
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Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Ratification of the Chair’s approval of authority to initiate litigation against Christina Leverone and John Ryan.
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Strategic Plan:
N/A
Summary:
Summary
In January, an Animal Control Officer was granted permission to enter the defendants’ residence and had to use a respirator and other protective equipment to do so given the strong odor emanating from the home. Inside the home were approximately 40 cats, which were kept in unsanitary conditions. Several of the cats were found to have genetic deformities, likely from inbreeding, such as additional toes and odd tail lengths. It appeared that none of the cats were spayed or neutered.
Due to the nature of the offense, Animal Services requested litigation be initiated in accordance with Section 828.073, Florida Statutes. Pursuant to Resolution No. 21-23, Pinellas County has now filed an action to take custody and ownership of these cats and to enjoin the defendants from owning animals or, in the alternative, for the Court to enter an Order to Provide Care for the cats.
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Background Information:
N/A
Fiscal Impact:
Unknown.
Staff Member Responsible:
Jewel White, County Attorney
Christy Donovan Pemberton, Managing Assistant County Attorney
Partners:
N/A
Attachments:
N/A