Poinciana Man Arrested for Felony Animal Cruelty in Polk County

Lanoris ParkerPhoto byPolk County Sheriff's Office (PCSO)

Polk County, FL – A Poinciana man is facing multiple felony charges after Polk County Sheriff's Office (PCSO) Animal Cruelty Investigators discovered a disturbing scene of animal neglect and abuse. The PCSO reports that 50-year-old Lanoris Parker was arrested after deputies found several dogs in poor condition, including two that were deceased, on a rental property in Davenport.

According to the PCSO, the property owner on Sylvan Ramble Road contacted authorities after noticing dogs in cages that appeared to be suffering from neglect. When deputies arrived, they found two dogs in crates that had already begun decomposing, with visible ribs indicating extreme malnourishment. Nine other dogs were found alive but in various states of distress, including three that were unable to stand or walk due to severe medical issues.

The Animal Cruelty Investigations Unit responded to the scene, and all animals were seized and taken to Polk County Animal Control for emergency treatment. Dr. Kerry Jackson, DVM, examined the surviving dogs and determined that they were all severely malnourished, with some scoring only 1 out of 9 on the Purina Body Condition Scale, which indicates no body fat and significant muscle loss. Dr. Jackson confirmed that the two deceased dogs had died of starvation and that the surviving dogs had endured prolonged suffering.

In addition to the animal cruelty charges, Parker is facing several environmental violations. PCSO Environmental Crimes detectives found over 400 pounds of solid waste, dilapidated structures, metal debris, and stagnant water breeding mosquitoes on the property. Detectives also noted an unauthorized burn pile.

When deputies arrived at Parker’s home in Poinciana to make the arrest, they discovered seven more dogs on the property. Six of those dogs were confined in crates inside a garage with no food, water, or proper ventilation. A second investigation was launched, and all seven dogs were seized, with six of them showing signs of severe neglect.

Parker has been charged with:

• 15 counts of felony animal cruelty – $5,000 bond per count
• 2 counts of confining animals without sufficient food or water – $2,000 bond per count
• Operating an unpermitted landfill – $1,000 bond
• Burning without a permit – $250 bond
• Keeping a nuisance injurious to health – $250 bond

Parker is currently being held at the Polk County Jail with a total bond set at $80,500.

Authorities say the investigation is ongoing, and further charges may be pending as more details emerge.

Photo byiSkyNews