Two Clearwater Women Arrested on Felony Animal Cruelty Charges After Dog Thrown From SUV, Deputies Say
PINELLAS – Two Clearwater women were arrested on February 26, 2026, on felony animal cruelty charges after deputies say a small dog was thrown from a moving vehicle in Pinellas County.
According to a Complaint/Arrest Affidavit filed in the Pinellas County Circuit Court, twins, Tracey Denise Fitzgerald, 54, and Stacey Latoya Fitzgerald, 54, were each charged with Animal Cruelty.
Deputies allege the incident occurred Jan. 22, 2026, at about 4 p.m. near 14019 66th St. N. Witnesses told investigators that Tracey Fitzgerald intentionally threw a 3-pound senior dog named “Princess” out of the front passenger-side window of an SUV traveling about 50 mph. A witness reported that the dog landed approximately five feet from the vehicle on the sidewalk.
The affidavit states the dog sustained severe injuries.
Stacey Fitzgerald, identified as the dog’s owner, was also charged. According to the affidavit, she refused to authorize emergency veterinary treatment after the dog showed visible injuries, including bleeding from the eye and abrasions to the body and exposed parts of the dog’s cranium. Investigators wrote that she declined to sign paperwork authorizing a $1,000 hold for emergency medical care and argued with staff.
There was also mention of a prior incident at the veterinary office where “they” tried to take her dog away due to their refusal of treatment, as the dog allegedly was struck by a vehicle.
Both women were arrested at 6:40 p.m. Feb. 26. Bond was set at $5,000 for each, court records show.
The case remains pending in Pinellas County Circuit Court.