Authorities Seize Nearly 100 Neglected Animals From Florida Business, Owner Charged

A Florida animal breeder is facing animal cruelty charges following a “large-scale” investigation involving dozens of malnourished and neglected animals including horses, sheep, goats and exotic birds.

The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) said deputies on June 2 responded to Moonstone Field, a 5-acre business in rural Dunnellon, after a caller reported a horse in severe distress at the property. They arrived to find the horse “suffering to such a degree that a veterinarian approved humane euthanasia on scene.”

The sheriff’s office said the owner of the business, 38-year-old Christina Mary Pitts, breeds horses, dairy goats and Florida Native sheep.

What followed was a multi-day investigation into the treatment of approximately 92 animals observed on the property, including horses, goats, sheep, dogs, exotic birds, chickens, cats, and a turtle.

“Many” of the animals were malnourished, had untreated medical issues, and suffered “poor living conditions.” CCSO Animal Control found 13 horses with conditions severe enough to support felony animal cruelty charges.

“This was one of the most heartbreaking scene our team has encountered,” said Sheriff David Vincent. “The level of suffering these animals endured was completely preventable, but I’m proud of how our deputies, Citrus County animal Services, and Countryside Animal Clinic worked together to make sure every surviving animal received the care they needed.”

Detectives determined Pitts was allegedly solely responsible for the care of all the animals on the property. She was arrested June 2, though additional charges are expected following forensic examinations of the remaining animals.