Chicago Doctor Told to Stay in Illinois to Face Charges of Aggravated Cruelty to Her Dog
Dr. Anita Damodaran, 38, Arrested in Florida, Faces Animal Cruelty Charges
Dr. Anita Damodaran, a 38-year-old physician from Chicago, was arrested in Florida in December and is facing charges of aggravated animal cruelty after her dog, Betty, was found barely breathing in her Lincoln Park apartment in March 2024.
Betty’s Rescue
According to the Hinsdale Humane Society, Betty, a dog who was found malnourished and in a plastic bin, was rushed to an animal hospital for treatment. The society described her condition as “severely malnourished and with a small hole on the container’s lid for her to breathe.”
Arrest and Court Hearing
Dr. Damodaran was arrested on December 10 at her home in Tampa, Florida, and was later brought to Illinois to face charges. In a court hearing on Thursday, a Cook County judge denied the prosecutor’s request to keep her in jail until her trial, but ordered her to remain in Illinois and seek medical treatment. She is also under a 12-hour curfew and is expected to appear in court again on Friday.
A New Home for Betty
The good news is that Betty, who was rescued in March 2024, is now happy and healthy, living with a new family, according to the Garrido Stray Rescue Foundation. The foundation described Betty as “a resilient and survivor” who deserves better treatment and is now receiving love and compassion.
FAQs
* What happened to Dr. Damodaran’s dog, Betty?
Betty was found malnourished and in a plastic bin in Dr. Damodaran’s apartment.
* What are the charges against Dr. Damodaran?
Dr. Damodaran is facing charges of aggravated animal cruelty.
* What is the current status of Dr. Damodaran’s case?
Dr. Damodaran is currently in Illinois, facing charges and under a 12-hour curfew.
* What is the condition of Betty, Dr. Damodaran’s dog?
Betty is now happy and healthy, living with a new family.
