A Maltese at the center of a high-profile Tampa animal cruelty case has died from its injuries, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office.
The agency announced Wednesday that the dog, named Benjamin, died despite “extensive lifesaving efforts” from veterinary staff at the Hillsborough County Pet Resource Center.
“This heartbreaking outcome is devastating for everyone who followed Benjamin’s fight to survive,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. “Our hearts are with the veterinary team and all those who cared for him in his final days.”
Benjamin had become the focus of widespread outrage after authorities said Real Time Crime Center cameras captured a woman throwing and kicking the small dog along a Tampa roadway.
As HomeFetch previously reported, investigators said the dog suffered severe injuries in the attack, including a broken leg.
The sheriff’s office identified the suspect as 33-year-old Imania Davis. She was arrested on six counts of aggravated animal cruelty following the April 30 incident.
The sheriff’s office said detectives are continuing to work with the State Attorney’s Office “to ensure justice is fully pursued in light of Benjamin’s death.”
“This innocent animal deserved love, safety, and compassion — not cruelty,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement Wednesday. “While Benjamin’s story has touched hearts across our community and beyond, it also strengthens our resolve to hold those responsible for such abuse fully accountable.”
