Subject:
Title
Proposed ratification of initiation of litigation in the case of Pinellas County v. Chadwick Kegler; County Court Case No. 24-006427-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 Chadwick Kegler.
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Strategic Plan:
N/A
Summary:
Summary
On July 19, 2024, the St. Petersburg Police Department served a previously issued warrant upon Chadwick Kegler at 3201 Freemont Terrace S., St. Petersburg, FL 33715, and 1910 Quincy St. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33771 (“Properties”). At that time, officers observed evidence of criminal activity at the Properties, including evidence of training and using dogs in animal fighting.
In response to the request by law enforcement, on July 19, 2024, Pinellas County, through its Animal Control Officers, visited the Properties and took custody of the animals. Pinellas County took custody of twenty-six (26) animals which were kept on the property and/or in the home located at 3201 Freemont Terrace S., St. Petersburg, FL 33715, and twenty-three (23) animals which were kept on the property and/or in the home located at 1910 Quincy St. S., St. Petersburg, FL 33771.
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 July 29, 2024, Pinellas County filed an action to take custody and ownership of these animals and to enjoin the defendant from owning animals or, in the alternative, for the Court to enter an Order to Provide Care for the animals.
On August 28, 2024 the Petition for Custody of Cruelly Treated Animals was heard before the County Court. Pinellas County was awarded custody of all animals, Kegler was enjoined from future ownership of animals, and was ordered to pay costs associated with caring for the animals while they were in custody.
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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