A 29-year-old Naples woman, Ida Marko, was arrested today on felony charges of aggravated animal cruelty following an investigation by the Collier County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Animal Cruelty Investigations Alliance. Detectives determined that Marko repeatedly refused to provide necessary medical care and grooming for her 12-year-old white Samoyed, Sammy, despite previous citations and fines.
Sheriff Kevin Rambosk stated, “This was a heartbreaking case. Thanks to the coordinated effort by our detectives and local animal welfare agencies, Sammy is safe and on the mend, and the suspect will now be held accountable for her neglectful actions.”
The investigation began in November after Sammy was found running loose with severe dental distress and matted fur so extreme that his gender was initially indistinguishable. Collier County Animal Control Officers issued two citations to Marko for veterinary care and grooming, which she ignored, refusing access to check on the dog and admitting he hadn’t received care. She subsequently failed to appear in court, was found guilty, and fined. The case was then referred to CCSO for further investigation.
Detectives found Sammy’s condition had worsened, with matted fur restricting movement and signs of oral and ear infections. Concluding prolonged and unnecessary suffering due to Marko’s willful neglect, detectives obtained a search warrant and removed Sammy.
A veterinary examination revealed severe matting, an advanced tooth infection, and chronic arthritis – all deemed preventable or treatable conditions. The veterinarian concluded Sammy endured ongoing and unnecessary pain that proper care could have alleviated.
Sammy is now recovering at Domestic Animal Services, and CCSO has petitioned the court for full custody of the dog.
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