Subject:
Title
Proposed ratification of initiation of litigation in the case of Pinellas County v. Terrell Coley; County Court Case No. 22-003216-CO - animal cruelty.
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Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Ratification of the Chair’s approval of authority to initiate litigation against Terrell Coley.
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Strategic Plan:
N/A
Summary:
Summary
Pinellas County Sherriff’s deputies requested the assistance of Animal Services at a property containing a suspected dog fighting ring. Animal Services seized 32 pit bull type dogs from the property. The dogs had numerous scars, and some were malnourished. The property also contained equipment and devices consistent with a dog fighting ring, such as: (1) modified human treadmill with a dog tethered to it; (2) boards to form a ring covered in blood; and (3) rolled up carpet covered in blood.
Due to the nature of the offense, Animal Services requested litigation be initiated in accordance with Section 828.073, Florida Statutes, which allows the County to seek permanent custody of animals that are cruelly or neglectfully treated. Pursuant to Resolution No. 21-23, Pinellas County has now filed an action to take custody and ownership of these dogs and to enjoin the defendant from owning animals or, in the alternative, for the Court to enter an Order to Provide Care for the dogs.
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Background Information:
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Fiscal Impact:
Unknown.
Staff Member Responsible:
Jewel White, County Attorney
Christy Donovan Pemberton, Managing Assistant County Attorney
Partners:
N/A
Attachments:
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