FROSTPROOF, Fla. (WFLA) — A woman was arrested after she was accused of leaving two dogs to die in the backyard of a Polk County home.
An anonymous tip to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office was received on June 17, regarding Nashali Santiago, 20, who was caring for her brother’s two German shepherds while he was stationed overseas.
The report indicated that two deceased dogs were in the backyard of her residence on West 6th Street in Frostproof. Santiago informed the authorities that she had last seen the dogs the preceding night, providing them with food and water, and said they appeared “fine.”
Upon investigation, deputies discovered the remains of Ajax, a three-year-old male, and Sugar, a two-year-old female, inside a “makeshift pen without a roof or shade,” as stated by the sheriff’s office. It was reported that there were no food or water containers present, and the dogs’ bodies were starting to decompose in the intense 93-degree temperature.
The dogs’ remains were sent to the University of Florida Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory for examination. Results indicated that they succumbed to heatstroke and dehydration, according to PCSO.
The findings showed that Ajax was undernourished while Sugar had a normal body condition, although neither had eaten in recent times. The sheriff’s office reported no evidence of disease or physical harm.
“This is an incredibly tragic instance of neglect,” Sheriff Grady Judd expressed in a statement. “When you assume responsibility for an animal, you must ensure its proper care. These dogs needlessly suffered and died, and now the individual responsible for their demise is facing serious felony charges.”
Santiago was arrested and charged with two counts of animal cruelty.
