A Bradenton, Florida couple were arrested on Friday evening for aggravated animal cruelty charges after the Bradenton Police Department rescued five dogs that had been suffering from malnutrition and living in deplorable conditions at the couple’s home.
According to the Bradenton Police Department, an anonymous caller reported seeing the dogs, who appeared to be extremely underweight, at the home of Adriana O’Hara and Timothy Miller. When officers arrived at the couple’s home, they refused to allow the officers entry.
Later that day, the Bradenton Police Department and the Manatee County Animal Welfare executed a search warrant and seized the five dogs which included a Great Dane, a Cane Corso and three pit bull dogs. Each dog had been confined in a crate with no water or food.
The female pit bull, Great Dane and Cane Corso were in the worst condition, weighing only around half of what healthy dogs of their breeds should weigh. The other three dogs were also suffering from open sores on their bodies from improper housing and bedding.
Following physical examinations, a veterinarian determined the dogs were suffering from clear signs of emaciation and chronic malnutrition, consistent with long-term neglect. Two dogs had open sores which were caused by inappropriate housing and bedding.
Three of the dogs were diagnosed with refeeding syndrome; a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when severely malnourished animals are fed too quickly. It’s suspected the couple attempted to feed the animals after officers requested to see the dogs.
O’Hara, 30, and Miller, 33, were arrested and each have been charged with five counts of aggravated animal cruelty, for the prolonged deprivation of adequate food, water, and care necessary to sustain life and prevent suffering. The charges are third-degree felonies.
The dogs are receiving lifesaving care and ongoing medical treatment. The investigation is ongoing.
If you have information about this case, email Officer Cerniglia at [email protected].
Any information can be made anonymously to Crime Stoppers at manateecrimestoppers.com or by calling 866-634-8477.
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