On February 10, 2023, prosecutors filed a notice of Information charging Brandon BLAKE (40), with five (5) counts of Cruelty to Animals, Death, Pain or Suffering (F3), twelve (12) counts of Cruelty to Animals (M1), and seven (7) counts of Unlawful Confinement of Animals (M1).

 

On November 22, 2022, Seminole County Sheriff's Deputies and Animal Services responded to E. 20th Street in Sanford, where several canines of various breeds had been discovered neglected, malnourished, and in poor health. Investigators reported that four (4) canines were found deceased, and twenty four (24) others had to be seized for treatment, with one of those humanely euthanized due to its poor condition. Over the course of the investigation more than forty (40) animals were identified and removed from the residence.

 

The outdoor kennels housing the animals on the property had no food or water, and were filthy with uncleaned feces. Further, several additional animals were found inside the home and garage, again neglected and living in filth.

 

A necropsy performed on the deceased animals indicated they had died as a result of neglect.

 

Originally arrested on November 22, 2022, BLAKE had been out of custody after posting a $16,000 bond with the condition not to possess any additional animals. However, on December 21, 2022, Investigators discovered that BLAKE had offered two puppies for sale on social media, and posing as customers met with BLAKE the following day. BLAKE offered to sell the two puppies from his post for $1000 each in violation of his bond conditions. At a hearing on January 19, 2023, prosecutors successfully argued before Circuit Judge Donna McIntosh that BLAKE's bond should be revoked, and he was returned to the Seminole County Jail to await trial.

 

If convicted, each of the felony counts carries a maximum penalty of up to five (5) years in prison and a $5000 fine, while each misdemeanor count carries a maximum penalty of up to one (1) year in the county jail, and a $1000 fine.

 

No trial date has been set in this case. Please consult the Seminole County Clerk of Courts website for updates on future court appearances by this defendant.