“Trooper's Law” (Florida)

Trooper’s Law (Effective October 1, 2025)

Trooper’s Law, officially known as Florida Senate Bill 150, is legislation that makes it a felony to restrain and abandon a dog during a declared natural disaster or evacuation. This means that if a dog is tied up and left outside during a hurricane or other emergency, the responsible person could face up to five years in prison and a fine of $10,000, according to the Office of Governor Ron DeSantis. The law is named after a bull terrier that was rescued by a Florida Highway Patrol trooper during Hurricane Milton.

Trooper’s Law in Florida, which makes it a third-degree felony to restrain and abandon a dog outdoors during a declared natural disaster or evacuation, goes into effect on October 1, 2025, according to WCTV. Governor DeSantis signed this law alongside Dexter’s Law on May 28, 2025.

10/17/2025: BREAKING: Charges Dropped Against Trooper’s Former Owner

Here’s what we know:

Giovanny Aldama Garcia was charged with aggravated cruelty to animals after Trooper was found chained near I-75 as floodwaters rose.

Prosecutors have now dropped all charges, filing a “Nolle Prosequi” due to insufficient evidence proving Garcia tied the dog there.

The Hillsborough State Attorney’s Office said it couldn’t move forward “in good faith” without that proof.

The case sparked outrage across Florida and led to the creation of “Trooper’s Law,” which increases penalties for abandoning animals during emergencies.

The Humane Society of Tampa Bay rehabilitated Trooper and now lives safely with a loving family in Leon County.

The new law remains Trooper’s legacy — ensuring tougher consequences for future abusers.