CLEARWATER, FL — On Thursday, May 22, 2025, La’Myah Jade Rumph was arrested and charged with animal cruelty following a violent incident involving her five-month-old mixed pit bull puppy named Nova. The incident occurred in her apartment at 2007 Alpine Road.
According to law enforcement, the situation escalated after the puppy defecated inside Rumph’s bedroom. In response, Rumph allegedly became enraged, lifted the puppy by its neck, and struck it with her fist while it was suspended in the air. She then reportedly threw the puppy forcefully into a nearby metal dog crate, causing the crate’s metal door to break due to the impact.
Investigators stated that Rumph then poured a large amount of pickle juice and hot sauce onto the puppy while it lay in the cage.
Upon arrival, officers found the puppy trembling and visibly distressed inside the crate. The puppy was covered in pickle juice and hot sauce, and the area surrounding the crate was scattered with feces. The animal was unable to walk properly or bear weight on its left hind leg.
Pinellas County Animal Control took custody of the injured puppy and initiated a cruelty investigation. A veterinary examination will determine the full extent of the puppy’s injuries.
Post-Miranda, Rumph admitted to her actions. She was charged with cruelty to animals, and booked into the Pinellas County Jail.
The case remains under investigation.