A West Palm Beach man is facing charges after allegedly abandoning his senior dog on a secluded road. Sean Anthony Miller, 28, was arrested on suspicion of leaving his 11-year-old Shiba Inu, named Coco, by the side of a road in Indiantown, Martin County, as per the reports from the CBS12 news outlet. The Martin County Sheriff's Office credited Detective Christine Polizzi, their Animal Control Officers, and the Criminal Investigations division for being able to quickly identify and apprehend Miller in connection with the incident.
The Martin County Sheriff's Office alleged that Miller chose to openly disregard his duty of care by driving to a deserted part of Indiantown to purposely abandon Coco. Their statement, which was further detailed by WPBF, added that this act was not only inhumane but also a criminal offense under the state’s animal welfare laws. The West Palm Beach Police Department collaborated to secure Miller's arrest following the sheriff's office investigation.
Once in custody, Miller was charged with animal abandonment, an offense that can carry fines and a potential jail sentence under Florida law. The sheriff's office highlighted the severity of such acts and the importance of ensuring animals are treated with care and respect.
Coco, the Shiba Inu, is currently in the protective custody of the authorities. The sheriff's office stated that Coco was found in good health, despite the ordeal. They intend far more than to merely secure a prosecution; their goal is also to find Coco a new home where she will be safe and loved for the remainder of her years.
