Virginia woman arrested after breaking into home, stabbing pet snake

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.

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Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News