A pet snake suffered life-threatening injuries after a breaking and entering that occurred yesterday morning.

On March 12th at approximately 11:00 a.m. deputies responded to an active breaking and entering on Lakeview Drive. It was advised a female suspect was currently in the residence with scissors and knives. Deputy C.S. Harding and Deputy J.L. Jones were quick to arrive and discovered the suspect was still inside the residence.

The suspect, Nina Zarin, 21, of Fredericksburg, was detained. During a search of her person, deputies located suspected controlled substances. It was discovered Zarin unlawfully entered the residence with the intent to kill a pet snake that was in the residence. While two pet snakes were unharmed, a four-year-old banana ball python had several stab wounds and a knife currently sticking out of it.

Animal Control Officer O.J. Martins responded and began to care for the injured pet as she transported it to a nearby animal hospital. Veterinarians advised the snake sustained serious stab wounds that could lead to death. After emergency surgery, the pet was returned to her owner for recovery.

Zarin was charged with felony breaking and entering, felony animal cruelty, and possession of controlled substances. She was held at Rappahannock Regional Jail without bond.

Excellent work by Deputy Martins for caring for the wounded reptile and getting her treatment fast. Thank you to White Oak Animal Hospital for their care of the snake, we are hoping for a speedy recovery.