Bradenton Couple Arrested on Aggravated Animal Cruelty Charges After Malnourished Dogs Rescued
A Bradenton couple was arrested Friday evening after police discovered several severely malnourished dogs living in what authorities described as deplorable conditions at their home in the 1800 block of 10th Avenue West.
According to the Bradenton Police Department, officers responded earlier in the week after receiving an anonymous report that dogs at the residence appeared extremely underfed. When officers arrived to check on the animals’ welfare, resident Adriana O’Hara, 30, refused to allow them inside.
On October 14, Bradenton Police and Manatee County Animal Welfare executed a search warrant and seized five large-breed dogs, including a Great Dane, a Cane Corso, and three pit bulls. Investigators said each dog had been confined to a crate without adequate access to food or water.
A veterinarian determined the dogs were suffering from emaciation and chronic malnutrition consistent with long-term neglect. Two dogs had open sores caused by improper housing and bedding, while three were diagnosed with refeeding syndrome. This potentially fatal condition can occur when severely malnourished animals are fed too quickly. Authorities believe the couple may have attempted to feed the dogs after officers initially requested to see them.
O’Hara and Timothy Miller, 33, were each charged with five counts of aggravated animal cruelty, third-degree felonies involving the prolonged deprivation of food, water, and necessary care.
The dogs are now receiving lifesaving medical care and rehabilitation. The investigation remains ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact Officer Anthony Cerniglia at anthony.cerniglia@bradentonpd.com.
The Bradenton Police Department urges residents to report suspected animal abuse to Manatee County Animal Welfare at 941-742-5933 or submit anonymous tips through Manatee Crime Stoppers at manateecrimestoppers.com or by calling 866-634-8477.
In May 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Dexter’s Law, strengthening Florida’s animal protection statutes by increasing penalties for aggravated animal cruelty and creating the state’s first public registry of convicted animal abusers.
