The man who brutally killed a dog named Dexter — decapitating him only hours after adopting him from Pinellas County Animal Services — has been granted bond while appealing his conviction, sparking widespread outrage among animal advocates and members of the public.

Domingo Rodriguez was convicted of aggravated animal cruelty and unlawful disposal of a dead animal for the heinous February 2023 crime that inspired Dexter’s Law, a landmark Florida statute that reclassifies certain animal cruelty offenses as violent crimes. Following his conviction, Rodriguez was sentenced to multiple years in prison.

But on July 9, 2025, Judge Keith Meyer granted Rodriguez a $55,000 supersedeas bond, allowing him to remain free during the appeals process. The judge acknowledged the disturbing nature of the crime but stated that Rodriguez met the legal criteria for bond under Florida law. The decision was met with heavy hearts by those who fought for justice in Dexter’s name.

The court imposed strict conditions on Rodriguez’s release, including:

• GPS monitoring
• Surrendering his driver’s license and passport
• No contact with animals or witnesses
• Monthly in-person court appearances during the appeals process

While these conditions limit Rodriguez’s freedom, the fact remains that he is no longer in custody — a painful setback for everyone who celebrated the recent hard-won legal victory.

Dexter’s death shook Florida and the nation. His story moved legislators to act, resulting in the passage of Dexter’s Law and Trooper’s Law, two groundbreaking protections for animals in the legal system. In Defense of Animals supported these efforts and joined with activists and lawmakers to demand change.

Now, we must once again speak out — this time to ensure the law is not undermined before it’s even fully realized. A bond may be legal, but it is not just.

We will continue to monitor this case and provide updates as Rodriguez’s appeal proceeds. For Dexter, and for all victims of violence, we will not be silent.

Learn more about how we help the victims of animal cruelty, and please consider donating to support our lifesaving work.