Crime
Deputies Make Gulf Breeze Animal Cruelty Arrest Involving Two Santa Rosa Residents
Two Gulf Breeze residents, Charolet Ann Dellinger and David Kella Neely, were arrested by Santa Rosa County Sheriff deputies on animal cruelty charges following an investigation at their Brigaton Court residence and booked into the county jail in Milton.
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Deputies jailed two Santa Rosa County residents following a recent Gulf Breeze animal cruelty arrest, according to official law enforcement booking logs.
Specifically, the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office arrested 57-year-old Charolet Ann Dellinger and 57-year-old David Kella Neely. Intake logs also identify Dellinger as Charolette Ann Dellinger. Deputies then transported both individuals to the Santa Rosa County Jail in Milton, Florida. Correctional staff processed them on the evening of August 28, 2026.
Details Surrounding the Gulf Breeze Arrests
Both defendants face charges under Florida Statute § 828.12(1) for cruelty to animals. This statute prohibits tormenting, depriving, mutilating, or killing an animal. Jail records currently list both Dellinger and Neely on a no-bond status. However, secondary public booking records noted pending bond reviews during standard initial intake.
Meanwhile, authorities have not released detailed probable cause affidavits to the public. Therefore, the intake dockets do not yet reveal the condition, species, or total number of animals involved in the Santa Rosa County crime investigation.
Animal welfare remains a significant priority for homeowners across Santa Rosa County and neighboring Northwest Florida communities. Furthermore, local neighborhoods rely on active code enforcement and county deputies to address neglect or cruelty inside residential areas.
For residents in Tiger Point, Oriole Beach, and Gulf Breeze, strict enforcement reflects a strong commitment to public safety. Local authorities thoroughly evaluate neglect allegations to protect community standards and ensure accountability.
Understanding Animal Cruelty Florida Statutes
Under Florida law, Chapter 828 establishes clear legal responsibilities for animal care. The statute sets penalties for acts of cruelty, deprivation, and neglect. Section 828.12(1) specifically penalizes anyone who unnecessarily overloads, torments, mutilates, kills, or deprives an animal of necessary sustenance or shelter.
Santa Rosa County Sheriff Office Investigation Procedures
The Santa Rosa County Sheriff Office typically investigates alleged violations alongside local animal services personnel. When deputies discover sufficient evidence of cruelty or severe deprivation, they forward the case file. Then, the Office of the State Attorney for the First Judicial Circuit reviews the evidence for prosecution.
For example, deprivation investigations examine whether animals have access to basic daily necessities. Officers evaluate potable water, adequate food, sanitary living spaces, and necessary veterinary care.
Next Steps in the Legal Process
Next, both defendants will face standard statutory proceedings inside the Santa Rosa County court system. This process begins with first appearance hearings. A presiding judge will determine bond amounts and establish any ownership restrictions.
Under Florida criminal procedure, the court presumes all defendants innocent until prosecutors prove guilt. Additional case details will emerge once prosecutors file formal charging documents with the Santa Rosa County Clerk of Court.
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