FREDERICKSBURG, VA – A woman was arrested after allegedly breaking into a home and stabbing a pet snake multiple times, leaving it with life-threatening injuries.
Deputies responded to a residence on Lakeview Drive on March 12 at approximately 11:00 a.m. after receiving reports of a female suspect armed with scissors and knives inside the home.
Upon arrival, deputies found Nina Zarin, 21, still inside and took her into custody. A search revealed she was in possession of suspected controlled substances. Authorities say Zarin entered the home intending to kill a pet snake, ultimately stabbing a four-year-old banana ball python multiple times.
Animal Control Officer O.J. Martins transported the injured reptile to a veterinary hospital, where it underwent emergency surgery. The snake survived and was later returned to its owner to recover.
Zarin faces multiple charges, including felony breaking and entering, felony animal cruelty, and drug possession. She is being held without bond at Rappahannock Regional Jail.