SHARPES, Fla. — A Brevard County woman has been arrested and charged with manslaughter after authorities say two of her dogs fatally attacked a neighbor in the Sharpes community near Cocoa, Florida.
The suspect, Linda Cutler, 29, was taken into custody following an investigation into the death of Jodi Cowan, 50, who was killed during the attack on May 19.
According to the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, Cowan was walking in her neighborhood when two dogs escaped from Cutler’s property and attacked her. Emergency responders were called to the scene, but Cowan later died from her injuries.
Sheriff: Attack Was Preventable
Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey described the incident as a preventable tragedy and said investigators found evidence that the dogs had a history of aggressive behavior and prior incidents involving escapes from the property.
During a news conference announcing the arrest, Ivey criticized the owner’s handling of the animals.
“An innocent woman is dead, and two dogs are about to be euthanized because of this woman’s inactions and failure to be a responsible pet owner,” Ivey said.
The sheriff’s office said investigators reviewed previous complaints, witness statements, and animal control records as part of the case.
Victim’s Husband Tried to Save Her
Authorities said Cowan’s husband attempted to intervene during the attack and desperately tried to stop the dogs while calling for help.
The incident shocked residents throughout the neighborhood and quickly gained attention across Central Florida as details emerged from the investigation.
Family members and neighbors have since expressed grief over Cowan’s death and raised concerns about previous reports involving the dogs.
Prior Complaints and Citations
Court and animal control records reviewed by investigators indicate there had been previous complaints regarding the dogs escaping from the property.
Authorities also said Cutler had previously received citations related to animal-at-large violations and issues involving dog registration and vaccinations.
Investigators allege the history of complaints and violations contributed to the criminal case that ultimately led to the manslaughter charge.
Dogs Expected to Be Euthanized
The two dogs involved in the fatal attack were taken into custody following the incident.
According to the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, the animals are expected to be euthanized in accordance with legal procedures following the conclusion of the case.
Officials have not released additional details regarding the timeline for that process.
Legal Proceedings Ahead
Cutler appeared before a judge following her arrest and was ordered held without bond pending further court proceedings.
Under Florida law, a manslaughter conviction can carry significant criminal penalties if prosecutors successfully prove criminal negligence contributed to a person’s death.
The case is expected to move through the Brevard County court system in the coming months.
Community Impact
The fatal attack has renewed discussion across Central Florida about dangerous dog ownership, enforcement of animal control laws, and the responsibilities of pet owners whose animals pose risks to public safety.
While fatal dog attacks remain relatively uncommon, authorities say the case highlights the importance of reporting aggressive animal behavior and addressing repeated violations before tragedy occurs.
What’s Next?
Prosecutors will continue building their case as court proceedings move forward against Linda Cutler.
Meanwhile, family members, neighbors, and community leaders continue mourning the loss of Jodi Cowan while seeking answers about how the fatal attack occurred.
Lake County Florida News will continue following developments in this case and provide updates as new information becomes available.
Have a news tip? Contact Lake County Florida News for breaking news coverage, public safety updates, and community reporting from across Central Florida.