Crime & Safety
Melrose, FL: Man Arrested After Authorities Remove 36 Dogs
Melrose, FL – A local man faces animal cruelty charges following a multi month investigation by Putnam County Animal Services that culminated in the seizure…
By Tessa Morgan · 2026-09-08T19:01:29.142Z
Melrose, FL – A local man faces animal cruelty charges following a multi month investigation by Putnam County Animal Services that culminated in the seizure of over 30 dogs from a residence on Swan Lake Drive. Mark Plosila, 67, was taken into custody on Thursday, September 3, 2026, after deputies executed a search warrant at the property.
According to the Putnam County Sheriff & 39;s Office, the investigation into Plosila’s property began after neighbors reported recurring issues with aggressive dogs. Complaints included reports of the animals attacking one another, climbing fences to escape, and a high volume of dogs kept on the premises. In August, a civil court order was issued requiring Plosila to surrender all but five of his dogs, a process that ultimately led to the criminal investigation.
Deputies encountered a volatile situation during the search, noting that 36 husky mixed dogs, including 11 puppies, were removed from the property. Sheriff H.D. & 39;Gator& 39; DeLoach highlighted the difficulties of the operation, citing the overgrowth and trash covering the yard as well as the aggressive nature of the animals, which necessitated law enforcement presence for safety.
Following a temperament evaluation, 15 dogs were euthanized due to aggression. The remaining dogs are currently at the shelter to receive care, while the puppies will eventually be moved to foster homes for socialization once weaned. Plosila was released from the Putnam County Jail on an $11,000 bond, with a strict condition that he may not possess any animals.
The Sheriff& 39;s Office remains focused on community safety, emphasizing that the removal of these animals was necessary to prevent further neighborhood threats. Animal Services is currently seeking donations of puppy food and anticipates a future need for foster homes. Have something happening in your community? Hit the red Post/Submit button above to share events, classifieds, stories and local updates with Country Herald.
SUPPORT LOCAL INDEPENDENT NEWS! Have a tip? Message us!