TAMPA, FL — A 38-year-old woman has been arrested on two counts of aggravated cruelty to animals after investigators found two severely malnourished dogs in her care.
Deputies with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office responded to an apartment in the 800 block of East 120th Avenue on July 14, 2026. While at the residence, deputies discovered two dogs that were extremely underweight, with their ribs, hips, and spinal bones visibly protruding.
Hillsborough County Animal Services responded to the scene and removed both dogs for emergency medical evaluation and treatment.
Veterinary reports received on July 23 from the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center determined the dogs were suffering from emaciation and multiple medical conditions consistent with prolonged neglect.
Following the investigation, detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Bernice Smith, 38, who was arrested on July 27 and charged with two counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals.
The sheriff’s office said the dogs have made a remarkable recovery since being rescued. Photos taken about two weeks after their rescue show them reunited with the HCSO detective who investigated the case, highlighting the progress they have made through proper medical care and rehabilitation.
SOURCE: HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
