A Largo man is facing an animal cruelty charge after deputies say video captured him physically abusing a dog at his Seminole Boulevard home. Pinellas County Sheriff's Office deputies arrested 36-year-old Michael Wayne Carey on suspicion of animal cruelty, according to court paperwork, after investigators reviewed footage recorded on two different days and obtained an affidavit that includes Carey's own admissions.
Deputies told investigators they received video recorded on Monday and again on Wednesday that shows Carey kicking and smacking the dog and, in one clip, allegedly grabbing the animal by the neck and throwing it from the steps of a porch into the yard, the arrest affidavit says, as reported by WTSP. The affidavit says Carey admitted he had thrown, kicked and smacked the dog. The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office arrested Carey in Largo and booked him on an animal cruelty charge, according to the report.
What Investigators Say
"The dog appeared fearful, lowered its body, tucked its tail and attempted to move away," investigators wrote in the arrest affidavit, according to WTSP. Investigators noted multiple episodes captured on video, including several instances where the dog recoiled after being struck. Deputies say community video and the suspect's own statements provided the probable cause they needed to make the arrest.
What The Charge Means
Carey now faces an animal cruelty case that will be reviewed by prosecutors. Under Florida law, cruelty can range from a first-degree misdemeanor to a third-degree felony, depending on intent and the severity of harm. Florida Statute 828.12 defines cruelty to animals and notes that intentional or repeated infliction of unnecessary pain may be charged as a felony and can carry criminal penalties along with court-ordered bans on owning animals. If convicted of a felony under that statute, a defendant faces the penalties outlined in state law.
How To Help
Investigators have asked anyone with video or information about the case to contact law enforcement. The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office posts tips and non-emergency contact information on its website, including a non-emergency line at 727-582-6200 and an online tip portal for residents, according to the sheriff's office site. Officials say preserving original digital files and using official contact channels helps deputies properly review potential evidence.
Local Pattern
This is not the only animal welfare case Largo and Pinellas County authorities have handled this year. In January, two people were arrested after 11 sick dogs were found abandoned in a park, a case that drew attention to the state's animal-abuser database, according to Bay News 9. Local advocates say the recent prosecutions highlight growing scrutiny of animal abuse in the region. The investigation into Carey's conduct remains active and could lead to additional legal action as prosecutors review the affidavit and any other evidence.
It was not immediately clear whether Carey has been assigned bail or when he will appear in court. The case remains under investigation and will depend on prosecutor review of the affidavit and any additional evidence. This story will be updated as new public records become available.
