Animal Cruelty Investigation leads to Altha woman’s arrest

On April 29, 2026, deputies with the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office responded to the intersection of Baker Road and Isoletta Road in Altha, Florida, in reference to a report of possible animal cruelty.

Deputy G. Chambliss made contact with the complainant, who reported concerning conditions at a residence belonging to Dawn R. Elrod. The complainant advised that he had been staying at the residence to assist with the care of numerous animals and observed multiple animals in poor health, as well as several deceased animals on the property.

According to the report, the property contained multiple goats, chickens, rabbits, dogs, cats, and other livestock. Several animals were found deceased, while others appeared malnourished or living in unsanitary condtions. Photographic evidence provided to deputies and reviewed during the investigation appeared consistent with these observations, including images of deceased animals and animals confined in areas with excessive waste accumultion.

Deputies also received information alleging that the suspect attempted to physically prevent the complainant from leaving the property. Initial attempts to make contact with the property owner were unsuccessful.

Based on the investigation, a warrant was issued for Dawn Elrod for the following: Florida Statute 828.12(2): Aggravated Animal Cruelty (Causing Excessive Pain or Death).

Based upon the animals condition, contact was made with Alaqua Animal Refuge to assist with the animals, and on Sunday, May 3, 2026, Deputy Earnest, along with officers from the Department of Agriculture, Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement, responded to the residence and took Elrod into custody without incident.

The Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank Deputy Chambliss for her thorough investiga-tion, Deputy Earnest, and the Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement for their assistance in safely taking the suspect into custody.

We would also like to extend our appreciation to Alaqua Animal Refuge for their response and efforts in rescuing and caring for the animals involved.

This investigation remains active, and additional charges may be forthcoming.