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File #: 23-0608A    Version: 1
Type: County Attorney Item Status: Regular Agenda
File created: 4/7/2023 Department: County Attorney
On agenda: 5/9/2023 Final action:
Title: Proposed ratification of initiation of litigation in the case of Pinellas County v. Briee Towers; County Civil Case No. 23-002564-CO - petition for custody of cruelly or neglectfully treated animals.

Subject:

Title

Proposed ratification of initiation of litigation in the case of Pinellas County v. Briee Towers; County Civil Case No. 23-002564-CO - petition for custody of cruelly or neglectfully treated animals.

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Recommended Action:

Recommended Action

Ratification of the Chair’s approval of authority to initiate litigation against Briee Towers.

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Strategic Plan:

N/A

 

Summary:

Summary

In June of 2022, following a complaint from the Tarpon Springs Police Department, Animal Services began performing welfare checks and counseling Briee Towers on caring for her two dogs.  On March 28, 2023, one dog was found wandering on US 19 and brought to Animal Services by a citizen.  The following day, while conducting a welfare check, Animal Services seized another dog.  Both animals exhibited signs of neglect and demonstrated a need for medical care.

Due to the owner’s inability to adequately care for the dogs, Animal Services requested litigation be initiated in accordance with Section 828.073, Florida Statutes.  Pursuant to Resolution No. 21-23, Pinellas County has filed an action seeking custody and ownership of the dogs and to enjoin the respondent from owning animals.

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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:

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