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Deputies responded to a break-in in progress at a residence on Lakeview Drive around 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 12, after being told a woman was inside the home wielding multiple weapons, according to the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office.
When they arrived, officers found 21-year-old Nina Zarin, of Fredericksburg, still inside the home.
During a search, deputies found suspected controlled substances on Zarin. But what shocked them was what she had already done.
Investigators say Zarin unlawfully entered the residence with the intent to kill a pet snake inside.
While two snakes were unharmed, a 4-year-old banana ball python had already been stabbed multiple times— with a knife still sticking out of its body.
Animal Control Officer O.J. Martins rushed the snake to a nearby animal hospital, where veterinarians determined the reptile had life-threatening stab wounds.
The python underwent emergency surgery and was later returned to its owner to recover.
Zarin was arrested and is now facing charges that include:
- Felony breaking and entering;
- Felony animal cruelty;
- Possession of controlled substances.
She is being held without bond at the Rappahannock Regional Jail.
Officials later commended Animal Control Officer Martins for saving the wounded snake, along with White Oak Animal Hospital for providing critical medical care.
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