Animal Related Crimes - Defending Individuals That May Have Been Falsely Arrested

Animal-Related Crimes Defense Lawyer in West Palm Beach and Throughout Florida

If you are facing charges or under investigation for an animal-related crime in Florida, immediate legal guidance is critical. The Law Office of Roger P. Foley, P.A. provides experienced, personalized defense for individuals accused of violating Florida’s animal welfare laws. We handle cases selectively, focusing on clients who acted responsibly, faced accidental harm, or were caught in challenging circumstances. Our approach ensures every client receives detailed attention, strategic advocacy, and expert guidance tailored to their situation.

Our office is located in West Palm Beach, Florida, but we represent clients statewide, including throughout Palm Beach County, Boca Raton, Wellington, and Palm Beach Gardens. When you contact us, you will speak directly with Attorney Roger P. Foley about your case. He personally reviews all available evidence, including police reports, inspection documentation, and witness statements, before crafting a defense strategy.

Why Our Practice Stands Out

Attorney Foley personally handles every case he accepts. You know exactly who is representing you—no “junior associates” or paralegals stepping in unexpectedly. This ensures consistent strategy, thorough preparation, and strong courtroom advocacy. Our clients benefit from decades of experience and a reputation for clear reasoning, professional advocacy, and respect from judges throughout Florida.

We focus on defending good people caught in difficult situations. Cases involving intentional cruelty, torture, or severe neglect are not accepted. Instead, we carefully evaluate each prospective client to ensure we can provide meaningful, high-quality representation.

Florida’s Legal Landscape for Animal Crimes

Florida has some of the most comprehensive animal welfare laws in the country, and penalties are becoming more severe. Two major laws passed in 2025—Dexter’s Law and Trooper’s Law—significantly increase punishments for animal abuse and neglect.

• Dexter’s Law: Enhances penalties for aggravated cruelty, including intentional torture or killing of animals, and creates a public registry for convicted individuals.
• Trooper’s Law: Increases felony penalties for abandonment or neglect during emergencies or natural disasters.

The governor has also signaled plans for further legislation to strengthen animal protection, including more severe prison sentences for individuals who intentionally harm or neglect animals. This evolving legal landscape underscores the need for skilled legal representation in Florida.

Common Types of Animal-Related Crimes in Florida

Animal-related offenses can range from unintentional neglect to deliberate acts of cruelty. Common charges include:

• Animal Cruelty (F.S. 828.12) – depriving an animal of necessary food, water, shelter, or care.
• Aggravated Cruelty – intentional torture, mutilation, or killing of an animal.
• Animal Fighting and Baiting (F.S. 828.122) – participating in or organizing dog-fighting events.
• Abandonment or Inhumane Confinement (F.S. 828.13) – leaving animals in unsafe conditions or tying them without proper care.
• Poisoning or Starvation – intentional harm or neglect.
• Animal Hoarding or Overcrowding – unsafe and unsanitary living conditions.
• Crimes Involving Livestock or Exotic Animals (F.S. 828.125 and 379.404) – illegal taking, mistreatment, or neglect of wild or farm animals.

Penalties vary based on intent and severity, from misdemeanors carrying up to one year in county jail to third-degree felonies with prison terms of up to five years. Additional fines and long-term consequences are possible.

Real-World Defense Success Stories

• Horse Trainer Case: A professional trainer faced allegations after handling a runaway horse during a trail ride. Expert equine testimony and witness interviews demonstrated that the trainer followed accepted protocols. The case was ultimately dismissed, highlighting the importance of expert analysis in defending against animal-related charges.
• Dog Breeding Operation: A breeding facility became overwhelmed by the number of animals and limited staff, resulting in more than 100 charges related to alleged neglect. Through careful investigation, documentation, and expert input, most charges were dismissed, and a small number were reduced to probationable felonies.
• Tragic Vehicle Incident: A young woman left four dogs in a running car. A malfunction of the air conditioning resulted in the dogs’ deaths. The case was handled with expert review and strategic negotiation, demonstrating how careful legal analysis can address accidental harm while protecting the client.

These examples illustrate how thorough investigation, expert consultation, and strategic advocacy can significantly influence outcomes. Our office focuses on clients who acted responsibly, faced accidental harm, or were in complex situations requiring skilled defense.

Why Skilled Representation Matters

Animal-crime cases are complex, fast-moving, and often emotionally charged. Skilled representation ensures:

• Thorough understanding of Florida statutes and evolving penalties.
• Careful review of all evidence, including police reports, veterinary records, and witness statements.
• Expert testimony from veterinarians, trainers, and inspectors to provide context and defend standard practices.
• Pretrial strategy, including negotiation for charge reductions, waivers of prosecution, or dismissal.
• Protection of client rights, including bail and pretrial conditions for animals in care.

Attorney Foley brings decades of experience to every case. He is personally involved in all aspects of the defense, ensuring clients receive consistent strategy, courtroom advocacy, and respected representation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What constitutes animal cruelty in Florida?

Animal cruelty includes depriving animals of food, water, or shelter, overworking, tormenting, mutilating, or intentionally harming them. Aggravated cruelty, including torture or killing, is a felony.

Can accidental neglect lead to felony charges?

Yes. Recent changes have increased the severity of penalties for accidental neglect, particularly if animals were harmed due to oversight, equipment failure, or environmental factors.

What types of evidence are used in these cases?

Evidence can include veterinary records, photographs, video, police and inspection reports, witness statements, and communications such as emails or text messages. Expert testimony is often critical.

Can expert witnesses help?

Yes. Veterinarians, trainers, and shelter inspectors can provide context and clarify whether standard practices were followed, helping distinguish responsible care from abuse.

How does bail work in animal-crime cases?

Bail conditions may include surrendering animals, travel restrictions, or no-contact requirements. Attorneys can request modifications where appropriate.

Can I gather my own evidence to support my defense?

Yes, but it must be done legally. Collecting photographs, witness statements, or records is helpful if conducted responsibly and ethically.

How long does an investigation take?

Investigation duration depends on case complexity, the number of animals involved, and the need for expert testimony. Early legal consultation helps ensure a thorough review before charges escalate.

Contact The Law Office of Roger P. Foley, P.A.

If you are facing animal-related charges anywhere in Florida, call (561) 746-7076 or visit our website to schedule a confidential consultation. Attorney Roger P. Foley personally reviews every case and provides strategic, high-quality representation. Early legal intervention can be critical in protecting your rights, your animals, and your future.

Understanding Florida Animal Crime Statutes

Some of the key statutes related to animal crimes in Florida include:

• Florida Statute 828.12 – Animal Cruelty
• Florida Statute 379.404(1) – Illegal Taking of Deer or Wild Turkey

Penalties for animal crimes vary depending on the offense and intent. Prosecutors in Florida, including Palm Beach County, take these cases seriously and often pursue aggressive charges. Animal crimes range from misdemeanors, punishable by up to one year in county jail, to third-degree felonies, punishable by up to five years in state prison. Facing these charges without skilled representation can put your freedom and reputation at risk.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Contact the Law Office of Roger P. Foley, P.A. today to schedule a free five-minute consultation with a Palm Beach County animal crime defense attorney. We take the time to understand not just your case, but you as a person. Hearing your account and all relevant details allows us to build a thorough, tailored defense. Early involvement by an experienced attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Let us get to work protecting your rights and guiding you through the legal process.