An Auburndale woman faces multiple criminal charges after a Polk County Sheriff's Office investigation found a dog with its muzzle taped shut and numerous animals living in deplorable conditions.
AUBURNDALE, Fla. — A Polk County woman is facing numerous criminal charges after deputies launched an animal cruelty investigation that began with a disturbing photo posted on social media showing a dog with its muzzle taped shut.
According to the Polk County Sheriff's Office, deputies became aware of the situation after seeing a Facebook post featuring a dog whose snout had been wrapped with duct tape. Detectives immediately began working to identify the animal and locate those involved.
Investigators later learned that a woman had found the dog hiding beneath a wheelchair ramp. The animal appeared to be struggling to breathe and hyperventilating. The woman and her son removed the tape, allowing the dog to breathe freely before posting a photo of the incident online.
A Polk County Sheriff's Office detective canvassed the neighborhood and eventually tracked the dog back to its owner at a residence located at 100 Chipman Lane near Old Berkley Road in Auburndale.
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| 57-year-old Tammy Annette Roosa / PCSO |
While investigating the property, deputies encountered 57-year-old Tammy Annette Roosa, who admitted that the dog belonged to her. According to investigators, Roosa stated she taped the dog's muzzle shut the night before because she claimed the dog had attempted to bite her.
Detectives reported that Roosa showed little remorse and refused to acknowledge that her actions were wrong. She later surrendered the dog, identified as Cooper, to authorities.
Animal Control officials transported Cooper for examination by a veterinarian. Investigators said the dog had visible scarring consistent with duct tape being wrapped around its muzzle. The examination also revealed signs of malnourishment and injuries around the neck indicating the dog may have been tethered for extended periods.
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| Cooper / PCSO |
As deputies attempted to arrest Roosa, she allegedly physically resisted but was eventually secured without further incident.
The investigation expanded after Roosa requested deputies retrieve her purse from inside her RV. According to investigators, deputies discovered deplorable living conditions inside the camper, including piles of garbage, roaches, and an overwhelming odor of feces and urine.
Authorities also located numerous animals living inside the RV, including seven cats, three fish, two lovebirds, two finches, and a duck. All of the animals were removed and taken to Animal Control for examination and treatment.
Polk County Fire Rescue responded to assess air quality inside the RV and reportedly detected ammonia levels of 100 parts per million, a concentration officials described as extreme and capable of causing chronic respiratory issues and eye irritation.
The Sheriff's Office Agriculture Crimes Unit also inspected the property and discovered multiple piles of garbage, discarded household items, decaying materials hidden in waist-high grass, and a leaking septic system that was reportedly releasing raw sewage. Investigators noted a large presence of flies and mosquitoes throughout the property.
Sheriff Grady Judd praised Animal Control staff for rescuing the animals and ensuring they receive proper care.
"Cooper the dog had been treated horribly, but I am happy to report that some good things have come out of this ordeal,"Judd said. "Cooper is getting wonderful treatment and care by the great staff at Animal Control, and all of his little animal friends have been freed from their horrible living conditions as well."
Authorities said all of the animals are expected to recover.
Roosa was transported to the Polk County Jail and charged with:
- Aggravated Animal Cruelty (Felony)
- Animal Neglect (15 Counts)
- Resisting Without Violence
- Operating an Unpermitted Landfill
- Keeping a Nuisance Injurious to Health (3 Counts)
The Polk County Sheriff's Office is encouraging residents to immediately report suspected animal abuse or neglect to law enforcement rather than only posting about it on social media.
Officials said the quick actions of the woman who removed the tape from Cooper's muzzle likely helped the dog avoid further suffering and ultimately led investigators to uncover additional animals living in dangerous conditions.
This remains an active investigation.
Source: Polk County Sheriff's Office
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