Manatee County Animal Welfare Requests Community Assistance in Ongoing Animal Cruelty Case

New Florida Animal Cruelty Laws Add Weight to Investigation as Officials Search for Suspect

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. (August 5, 2025)—Manatee County Animal Welfare (MCAW) is actively investigating a shocking case of animal abandonment and cruelty. On July 29, officers responded to a call on Lena Road, uncovering an abandoned crate with three cats inside. Tragically, one cat was deceased, while the other two were lethargic, severely underweight, and in critical condition. Initial evidence indicates that the surviving cats may have resorted to consuming the deceased animal in a desperate effort to survive.

“This kind of abuse has no place in Manatee County,” stated George Kruse, chair of the Manatee Board of County Commissioners. “We are firmly united with MCAW and law enforcement in our determination to investigate and prosecute this cruelty to the fullest extent of the law.”

The surviving cats have been taken to Bishop Animal Shelter, where they are receiving critical medical treatment. Fortunately, both have shown sweet and affectionate behavior, and MCAW is hopeful they will find loving adoptive homes once they fully recover.

“This is one of the most heartbreaking cases of animal neglect we’ve seen,” said Sarah Brown, Director of Manatee County Animal Welfare. “These animals suffered immensely. There is no excuse for this level of cruelty, and we are using every tool available to hold the responsible parties accountable.”

MCAW is urging the public to assist in the investigation. Anyone with information, no matter how minor, is encouraged to contact Manatee County Animal Welfare at (941) 742-5933.

Recent legislation signed by Governor Ron DeSantis on May 28, 2025, aims to strengthen Florida’s animal protection laws. Trooper’s Law designates specific acts of abandonment and neglect as felonies, particularly those occurring during declared disasters. Meanwhile, Dexter’s Law increases penalties for aggravated animal cruelty and establishes Florida’s first public registry of convicted animal abusers.

“Animal abuse is not merely a legal issue; it challenges our community’s values,” added Brown. “Help us make sure no animal suffers like this again.”

Key Information

• Date of Incident: July 29, 2025
• Location: 1700 block of Lena Road, Manatee County, Florida
• Victims: Three abandoned cats; one deceased, two in critical condition
• Ongoing Investigation: Manatee County Animal Welfare is seeking public assistance
• Contact Number: (941) 742-5933
• Recent Legislation:
  • Trooper’s Law: Felony status for specific types of animal abandonment and neglect.
  • Dexter’s Law: Increased penalties for aggravated animal cruelty; first public registry of convicted abusers.