Florida woman arrested for killing a spider?

A Florida woman has been arrested for allegedly killing her roommate's pet spider, according to law enforcement authorities in Okaloosa County.

Ilena Renae Rasmussen, aged 43, faces charges of larceny and animal cruelty, as documented by court and sheriff's office records. The motive behind the incident remains unclear, but Rasmussen reportedly confessed to the crime.

According to a probable cause affidavit obtained by The Miami Herald, she admitted to drowning the jumping spider in ginger ale.

The incident took place at a residence on Pansy Avenue in Crestview, Florida, on 15 July. The victim returned home to find her pet spider and its enclosure missing. She contacted Rasmussen, who later confessed to the act. Subsequently, Rasmussen was charged, arrested, and released on a personal recognisance bond.

Jumping spiders belong to the Salticidae family, the largest spider family, with over 5,000 species. Known for their unique eye pattern, they possess eight eyes, with the anterior median eyes being notably large.

Court records reveal Rasmussen's history of prior charges, including battery and driving under the influence. She is currently without legal representation. Rasmussen is scheduled to appear in court for her arraignment on 20 August. The pet spider was valued at approximately $70.