In an unsettling case of animal neglect in Polk County, Andrew Whitehurst faces multiple counts of felony animal cruelty after his three dogs were found in critical condition, with one dog deceased. As reported by WFLA, after being predominantly left without air or water, the surviving two dogs were discovered severely malnourished and dehydrated.
According to WTSP, the Polk County Sheriff's Office was alerted for a well-being check on September 30th at the Lakeland home of Whitehurst. Deputies were greeted by the stark evidence of neglect, with flies gathering on the insides of windows and the floors soiled with feces and urine.
When deputies made contact with him, Whitehurst initially gave a false name, claiming to be a friend named "Kevin James" checking on the animals, as per information obtained by FOX 13 News. Soon after, he admitted to leaving town on September 26 for work, incorrectly assuming that a family member would care for the dogs.
Sheriff Grady Judd, did not mince words regarding the gravity of the situation, expressed his standpoint clearly. "If you own pets, it is your responsibility to take care of them by providing them with food, water, and shelter which includes free-flowing air. Not doing so is evidence of someone with no conscience and a great disregard for life," Judd said, as attributed in a statement by WFLA. "Andrew doesn't deserve to be a pet owner ever again."
The two surviving dogs are currently undergoing treatment and rehabilitation at Polk County Animal Control. Whitehurst, besides the animal cruelty and confinement charges, is also accused of providing false information to a law enforcement officer. He was held at the Polk County Jail and scheduled for a court appearance.
