Police say a 19-year-old Port Orange woman was arrested Friday after officers found a severely malnourished dog in New Smyrna Beach. The animal was removed from a home in the 200 block of Inwood Avenue and taken for emergency veterinary care. Staff at a local shelter have nicknamed the dog Olive and say she has started to recover.
Police: Witnesses Describe Long-Term Neglect
The New Smyrna Beach Police Department said witnesses reported signs of long-term neglect, including the dog being confined indoors, not walked, urinating and defecating inside living spaces, and lacking proper food, water and care, according to ClickOrlando. Investigators said tips from multiple community members helped them identify the animal’s owner.
Suspect Arrested and Held on Bond
Authorities arrested 19-year-old Arriana Washington of Port Orange on Friday. Records show she is charged with cruelty to animals and is being held on a $10,000 bond, per FOX 35 Orlando. That outlet reported police described the allegation as aggravated cruelty to animals, which could elevate the case to a felony-level prosecution.
Rescue and Recovery at the Shelter
The dog was found on Monday in visibly emaciated condition and was taken for emergency care before being placed with the Edgewater Animal Shelter. Shelter staff say Olive has gained about six pounds and is showing steady improvement under veterinary supervision, according to ClickOrlando. For now, Olive’s world is limited to food bowls, vet checks and a slow climb back to health.
Other Regional Neglect Cases Raise Concern
Volusia County has seen other high-profile neglect investigations in recent months, including a June 2025 Edgewater case in which officers found seven deceased pets in an abandoned home. That investigation produced multiple aggravated-animal-cruelty charges and sparked community outrage, per WFTV. Local animal-control and shelter groups have urged residents to report suspected neglect as soon as they see it.
Legal Stakes if Convicted
Under Florida law, aggravated animal cruelty is a third-degree felony. A conviction can carry up to five years in prison and fines up to $10,000, and courts may prohibit convicted people from owning or caring for animals, as outlined by Florida Statutes, Chapter 828 and state sentencing rules. Prosecutors may also file separate counts for multiple acts or for more than one animal harmed.
How to Help or Follow the Case
Anyone with information is asked to contact the New Smyrna Beach Police Department at [email protected] and reference case number NS260200124, according to FOX 35 Orlando. Olive will remain in veterinary care until shelter staff clear her for adoption or transfer.
Washington’s case is pending and no court date has been announced. Police say the investigation remains active as they gather additional information from witnesses and shelter and veterinary personnel.
