Tip Leads Police to 8 Dogs, 2 Arrests in Port St. Lucie

Police in port st. lucie rescued eight severely malnourished dogs from a home on the 300 block of NW Biltmore Street after an anonymous tip on April 20 led officers to the property. Joseph Calafiore and Alexandria Fiorenza were arrested after the investigation, and each faces eight counts of animal cruelty.

NW Biltmore Street Rescue

The Port St. Lucie Police Department said officers and Animal Control officers went to the home after receiving the tip about multiple dogs living in deplorable conditions. Inside, they found eight dogs that were severely dehydrated, malnourished, and suffering from flea infestations and hookworms.

Police said the animals were living in unsanitary conditions filled with urine and feces. Some of the dogs were seen trying to drink condensation from an air conditioning drain line before they were taken out of the home.

Joseph Calafiore and Alexandria Fiorenza

Calafiore is 36 and Fiorenza is 33. Both were arrested after the rescue, and each was charged with eight counts of animal cruelty tied to the eight dogs officers removed from the home.

The dogs were taken to a local animal hospital and are now receiving medical care, nutritious meals, baths, and plenty of love. Veterinary staff said the animals’ condition reflected ongoing neglect and a lack of proper care.

Port St. Lucie Police Department

The case began with a single anonymous tip, then moved through an investigation, a rescue, and arrests. Police urged anyone who suspects animal abuse or neglect to call 911, making the reporting step the one practical action residents can take if they see a similar situation.