PINELLAS COUNTY, Fla. – A 19-year-old Florida woman is facing a felony animal cruelty charge after allegedly beating her 5-month-old pit bull mix puppy, named Nova, and then dousing the injured animal with pickle juice and hot sauce. Authorities reported that the incident occurred on May 22, leading to the arrest of La’Myah Rumph of Clearwater.
According to the Clearwater Police Department, officers responded to a disturbance call at a Clearwater apartment. Upon arrival, Rumph reportedly told officers that her puppy, Nova, “had an accident” on her bed.
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Investigators allege that Rumph reacted with extreme violence. She is accused of “aggressively” grabbing the young puppy by its neck, lifting it into the air, and striking it with her fist. The alleged abuse continued as Rumph then reportedly threw Nova into a metal crate with such force that the crate’s door broke.
Following the physical assault, investigators stated that Rumph allegedly poured “a copious amount” of hot sauce and pickle juice onto the puppy while it was confined in the damaged crate.
Responding officers found Nova in a distressing state: “trembling, shaking, upset and visibly distraught.” Authorities also noted that the puppy was unable to put weight on its left hind leg, indicating a significant injury.
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Officials with Pinellas County Animal Control were immediately called to the scene. They took custody of Nova to provide necessary care and veterinary treatment for her injuries. The current condition of the puppy has not been publicly updated.
La’Myah Rumph was arrested on May 22 and booked into the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office on a felony charge of animal cruelty. She was released later the same day after posting a $5,000 bond.
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