LAKELAND, Fla. – Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd addressed the media on Thursday morning to discuss the arrest of a nurse from Lakeland. Tamesha Knighten, 51, faces three counts of felony animal cruelty after allegedly poisoning her neighbors’ two pet cats and a pregnant dog, causing the death of the 8 puppies in the dog’s womb.

The arrest comes after an investigation into the deaths of the animals, which led authorities to Knighten. The case has stirred outrage and concern among the community, prompting Sheriff Judd to hold the press conference to inform the public about the incident.

According to the sheriff, Knighten’s alleged actions have shocked the neighborhood and left the owners of the pets devastated. The intentional harm caused to the animals has sparked a debate on the severity of animal cruelty laws and the need for stricter penalties for those who commit such acts.

The accused nurse is currently in custody, awaiting her court appearance. Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information related to the case to come forward and assist in the investigation.

Knighten’s arrest for allegedly poisoning her neighbors’ pets and causing the death of a pregnant dog and her 8 puppies has sparked a debate on animal cruelty laws and the need for stricter penalties. The nurse is awaiting her court appearance as the investigation continues.