Subject:
Title
Proposed ratification of initiation of litigation in the case of Pinellas County v. Seth Blount; County Court Case No. 26-004548-CO - petition for custody of cruelly or neglectfully treated animals.
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Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Ratification of the Chair’s approval of authority to initiate litigation against Seth Blount.
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Strategic Priorities:
N/A
Summary:
Summary
On April 28, 2026, Pinellas County Animal Services (PCAS) received a valid complaint of animal abuse and were provided with a date stamped surveillance video showing Respondent abusing an animal, in violation of county ordinance. On April 29, 2026, PCAS visited the referenced property following receipt of the complaint about animal welfare. Upon arrival, PCAS seized the animal pursuant to arrest of Respondent for Animal Cruelty by Largo Police.
In accordance with §828.073, Florida Statutes, a petition must be filed in County Court within ten (10) days after an animal seizure. Due to the time restraints set by law, approval to initiate litigation from the Board of County Commissioner’s Chair was sought pursuant to Resolution No. 21-23.
On May 7, 2026, Pinellas County filed an action to take custody and ownership of the animal and to enjoin the defendant from owning animals or, in the alternative, for the Court to enter an Order to Provide Care for the animal.
This item is now being brought to the County Commission for ratification, consistent with Resolution No. 21-23.
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Background Information:
N/A
Fiscal Impact:
Unknown.
Staff Member Responsible:
Jewel White, County Attorney
Amanda Coffey, Managing Assistant County Attorney
David Barrera, Assistant County Attorney
Partners:
Pinellas County Animal Services
Attachments:
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