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Lee County Woman Found Guilty for Killing Dogs
Oct 4, 2007 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MEDIA CONTACT: Fort Myers, Florida, 10/4/07-On September 26, 2007, Patricia Sue Garlick was found guilty of cruelty to animals in Lee County court for shooting her two dogs. On December 3, 2006 Lee County Animal Services was called to Garlick's home on Upcohall Ave. in Fort Myers following a 911 call by the defendant. Ms. Garlick stated that her dogs were attacking her. When Lee County Animal Services and the Lee County Sheriff's Office (LCSO) responded they found one dead dog and one injured dog which had to be humanely euthanized due to the severity of the injuries. Evidence indicated that Garlick was in no danger from her dogs as they tied up in her back yard. However, she subsequently went into her house, obtained a gun and shot both of the dogs. Ms. Garlick was charged with two misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty. She attempted to enter plea a deal of 12 months probation, court costs, 50 hours of community service, no possession of animals during probation and a fine of $500. That was rejected by the judge. Instead she was found guilty and sentenced to 30 days in jail; one year probation; fined $500; prohibited from owning animals during the probation period; and ordered to pay court costs, perform 50 hours of community service, turn over the gun to the LCSO, attend anger management counseling, reimburse the county for the cost of the necropsies and the investigation, and to undergo mental screening. Lee County Animal Services has seen an increase in awareness of animal cruelty cases over the past several years. In national, state and local cases this awareness has resulted in stiffer sentences, restrictions on animal ownership and mental health screening and treatment. This is a positive step in ending these tragedies and holding the offenders responsible. "Animal cruelty is a crime and this community takes it seriously," states Animal Services Director Scott Trebatoski. "We commend all of our local government and private agencies that have helped us in working together as a team to make this community the best it can be." For more information on animal cruelty laws and how to report animal abuse contact Lee County Animal Services at 239-432-2083 or visit the agency's website at www.LeeLostPets.com. Lee County Animal Services provides animal control services throughout Lee County and operates an animal shelter to house stray and abandoned domestic animals. It also administers low-cost spay/neuter programs, educational initiatives, and rabies and bite case control programs. The shelter is located off Six Mile Cypress Parkway next to the Lee County Sheriff's Dept. For more information call 432-2083 |