Local Man Cited for Possessing Prohibited Animal

A feral cat, similar to the one involved in a recent legal case, hiding in thick foliage.

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News Summary

Jeffrey Leibowitz is facing legal action after being cited for having a feral cat named Pouncer, a violation of Florence’s animal ordinances. Pouncer escaped and was later captured by animal control. The case raises concerns about exotic animal ownership in the community, especially given Leibowitz’s past with exotic pets. As he prepares for court, Leibowitz has started a crowdfunding campaign for legal expenses, while residents and officials debate pet ownership safety.

Florence, SC – A local man, Jeffrey Leibowitz, is set to appear in court next week after being cited for possessing a prohibited animal within the city limits. The animal in question is a large, nine-month-old feral cat named Pouncer. This incident has raised concerns regarding the enforcement of the city’s animal ordinances.

The situation unfolded last Friday when Pouncer escaped from Leibowitz’s car. He reportedly spent several hours searching for the cat and even took to social media to appeal for assistance from the community. Leibowitz described Pouncer as having escaped from multiple leashes and harnesses, even managing to open a car window.

Police were alerted to a report of a “serval mix cat on the loose” in the 100 block of Conyers Avenue. Upon arrival, animal control officers found Pouncer hiding in dense kudzu foliage. After some effort, they captured the cat using a pet carrier. An incident report detailed that Leibowitz sustained significant scratches on his arms and hands, which were consistent with cat injuries.

Following the animal’s capture, officials determined that Leibowitz had violated the city’s updated dangerous animal ordinance. This ordinance, revised earlier this year, prohibits the ownership of certain wild animals, including servals, which Pouncer is believed to be a mix of. As a consequence of the violation, police cited Leibowitz for possessing the prohibited animal.

After Pouncer’s seizure, she was taken to the Florence Area Humane Society. The cat has since been relocated to a pet sanctuary to ensure she receives adequate care and attention.

Liabilities surrounding the ownership of exotic animals have become a hot topic in Florence, especially with Leibowitz’s previous experience involving exotic pets. It is notable that he once owned a highly venomous snake, which had bitten him last year. This prior incident may have influenced the authorities’ decision regarding the citation.

Leibowitz, who is planning a move to Alabama for job opportunities, has not provided a specific address concerning where he will be residing. As the court date approaches, he has initiated a crowd-funding campaign to cover legal expenses related to contesting the citation.

The case has drawn attention to broader issues surrounding pet ownership and community safety, prompting debates about the implications of keeping wild animals as pets. Residents and local officials may now consider further discussions on the enforcement of animal control laws, especially in light of the potential risks associated with exotic animals living in residential areas.

As the legal process unfolds, members of the community continue to follow the case closely, intrigued by the complexities of animal ownership laws and their applications. The outcome of this situation could have lasting impacts on how local regulations are enforced in the future.

The next court appearance for Jeffrey Leibowitz is anticipated to clarify the legal standing regarding his situation and the handling of cases involving prohibited animals in Florence. The community remains vigilant as they await further developments in this case.