A small dog stolen during a Tallahassee burglary was found doused in bleach and hidden in the backseat of a stolen vehicle, in what investigators believe was an attempt to destroy potential evidence. Tampa police K-9 Officer Edwards discovered the animal during a stolen vehicle investigation and immediately worked to rinse the corrosive chemical from its fur.
A post from the City of Tallahassee Police Department said the dog had been stolen during a separate burglary before ending up doused in bleach inside the stolen car. Tampa police K-9 Officer Edwards used his own water supply to rinse the bleach off the dog, then wrapped the animal in a blanket and monitored it until animal control arrived to take custody, as reported by WTWC Fox 49.
Bleach contains sodium hypochlorite, a corrosive chemical that can cause severe skin irritation, chemical burns, tissue lesions, and respiratory distress in companion animals on direct contact, according to PetMD and ASPCA guidelines. Prompt flushing with clean water is recommended as emergency first aid before a veterinary evaluation, which is exactly the step Officer Edwards took at the scene.
Where the Dog Is Now
The City of Tallahassee Animal Services Center is located at 1125 Easterwood Drive.
Potential Felony Charges Tied to the Bleach
Under Florida Statute § 828.12, intentionally causing an animal excessive or repetitive unnecessary pain or suffering constitutes aggravated animal cruelty, a third-degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines, according to Goldman Wetzel. Florida strengthened its animal cruelty consequences under Dexter’s Law in July 2025, creating a public registry for convicted offenders…