Fish Felony: Florida Girlfriend Charged After Pouring Bleach Into Boyfriend’s Fish Tank Killing Goldfish
jonathanturley
Angela Garcia, 32, was arrested Saturday for, among other things, killing her boyfriend’s goldfish by pouring bleach into their tank. She also trashed boyfriend Norris Johnson’s Orlando-area apartment. What is interesting is the level of the charge.
Norris had an argument with Garcia and told her to move out of the apartment. Police say that she proceeded to destroy his flat screen TV, other electronic devices, and furniture — causing some $1500 in damage. She then allegedly poured bleach into her boyfriend’s fish tank, killing five goldfish.
She is now charged with felony counts of animal cruelty and criminal mischief. The felony on the fish is a higher than usual charge. However, these are pets and the act was allegedly intentional. It is interesting that we would not find this as notable if she poured the bleach down the throat of a dog or cat. Fish are often treated differently, but there is no real reason for the distinction. However, if this is a felony, then doesn’t that mean that goldfish swallowing at colleges is now a felony?
