Fort Lauderdale, FL — A heartbreaking discovery has sparked action in Fort Lauderdale, where police are cracking down on animal abuse with a newly expanded Animal Crimes Unit.
The unit—launched in April and now with over 20 officers—is dedicated to identifying, investigating, and prosecuting those who neglect, mistreat, or torture animals.
Last week, the Fort Lauderdale Police Department released disturbing body camera footage showing the horrific conditions in which animals were kept.
4 French Bulldogs Rescued in Shocking Condition
In one case, officers found four French bulldogs who hadn’t been fed in five to six days. They were discovered running around in their own feces and urine.
“They had about two inches of nails sticking out through the wooden boards on all four sides of the enclosure,” said Officer Whitney Ptak. “We had to cut padlocks to free them.”
Arrests Made After Puppy Found Covered in Feces
Just days earlier, Destiny Bray and Frederick Pinkney were arrested on charges of tormenting and confining a dog without food or water.
“You saw a small puppy, soaking wet, skin and bones, no food or water nearby,” Ptak said. “You could see its spine.”
According to an arrest report, three pit bulls—Thor, Lady, and a puppy named Pleasure—were found emaciated, shivering, and with ribs visible due to severe malnourishment.
The dogs are now in the care of Broward County Animal Care and Control and will be available for adoption after the case is resolved.
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Backed by Dexter’s Law
The growing Animal Crimes Unit aligns with House Bill 255, also called Dexter’s Law, which mandates the creation of a statewide database for anyone charged with aggravated animal cruelty.
Though the law went into effect on July 1, the searchable registry is expected to launch in January 2026.
Justice for the Voiceless
“At the end of the day, animals are voiceless victims. We tirelessly work, even off duty, to advocate for them,” said Officer Ptak.
Bray and Pinkney were each given a $9,000 bond and ordered to surrender their animals. The unit has already completed 26 cases and is currently pursuing four active investigations.
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