State Attorney’s Office Adds Teeth to Animal Cruelty, Neglect Cases

In an effort to better address cases of animal cruelty and neglect, State Attorney Melissa Nelson announces that all cases involving animal-related issues will be reviewed by longtime prosecutor Cyrus Zomorodian.

With this responsibility, Zomorodian will assess every case involving alleged violations of Florida Statutes Chapter 828 (Animals: Cruelty; Sales; Animal Enterprise Protection) before any action is taken.

“Cyrus is a wealth of information on animal-related law issues and he will be a great benefit to attorneys in this office,” said State Attorney Melissa Nelson. “We want to ensure that cases of animal cruelty and neglect are handled with the expertise they deserve.”

Zomorodian serves as the director of the office’s Special Prosecution and has long specialized in animal law. His expertise was recently recognized through his appointment as chairperson of the Animal Law Section of the Florida Bar. The section informs Bar members and the public of developments in case law, legislative changes, and other relevant animal law issues.

He previously served as an adjunct professor at Florida Coastal School of Law teaching Animal Law courses, and is a frequent speaker on animal-related issues.

“As an animal lover, I consider it an honor to have the opportunity to prosecute those who commit criminal abuse, neglect, or cruelty upon animals,” said Zomorodian. “It has been repeatedly proven that those persons who abuse animals have a heightened likelihood of committing crimes of violence against domestic partners and children. I look forward to working with our law enforcement and animal care professionals in Northeast Florida to fight for justice for those who have no voice.”

Zomorodian (third from right) during a recent walk through of the city’s Animal Care and Protective Services facility.