Manatee County Animal Welfare Seeks Public’s Help in Active Animal Cruelty Investigation
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 seeking information related to a disturbing case of animal abandonment and cruelty currently under active investigation.
On Monday, July 29, animal welfare officers responded to the 1700 block of Lena Road, where they discovered an abandoned crate containing three cats. One cat was found deceased. The two survivors were lethargic, severely underweight, and in critical condition. Evidence suggests the cats may have begun consuming the deceased animal in a desperate attempt to survive.
“This kind of abuse has no place in Manatee County,” said George Kruse, Manatee Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) chair, who has long championed animal welfare efforts in the community. “We stand with MCAW and law enforcement in our commitment to investigate and prosecute this cruelty to the fullest extent of the law.”
The two surviving cats were transported without incident to Bishop Animal Shelter, where they are currently receiving lifesaving care and ongoing medical treatment. Both have shown themselves to be sweet and affectionate, and MCAW hopes to place them in a loving adoptive home once they have fully recovered.
“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 party responsible.”
Manatee County Animal Welfare is calling on the public to assist in this investigation. Anyone with information related to this case, no matter how small, is urged to call Manatee County Animal Welfare at (941) 742-5933.
Recent legislation signed by Governor Ron DeSantis on May 28, 2025, strengthens Florida's animal protection laws. Trooper's Law makes certain acts of abandonment and neglect, including those that occur during declared disasters, a felony offense. Dexter's Law increases penalties for aggravated animal cruelty and creates Florida's first public registry of convicted animal abusers.
“Animal abuse is not just a violation of the law, it’s a violation of our community’s values,” said Brown. “Help us ensure no animal suffers like this again.”
For more information about Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or call (941) 748-4501. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.