ST. JOHNS COUNTY, Fla. – Two men are facing animal cruelty charges after allegedly abandoning 23 dogs along a roadside in St. Augustine, following a multi-agency investigation by the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.
The case began May 4, 2026, when St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the intersection of US-1 and County Road 204, where the dogs were discovered.
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Investigation leads to arrests
SJSO Property Crimes detectives determined Austin Moore, 32, took 23 dogs from a Palm Coast home and traveled to St. Johns County, while Anthony Dunham, 23, followed in a separate vehicle. The two men allegedly released and abandoned the dogs on the side of the road. Three dogs died as a result. The remaining 20 dogs were recovered and transported to local animal hospitals for treatment.
Once SJSO Intelligence Analysts identified a suspect vehicle, investigators were led to a Palm Coast residence belonging to Carolyn Loveman, 48, where additional dogs were found. Loveman was arrested and charged by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office in May for one count of felony aggravated animal cruelty and 31 counts of misdemeanor cruelty to animals. A total of 51 dogs were removed from the residence, bringing the combined total to 74 dogs recovered across both county investigations.
“We will not tolerate any degree of animal abuse or neglect in St. Johns County. We are able to hold these suspects fully accountable through hard work and strong law enforcement partnerships. With the dedication of SJSO and FCSO teams, and the help of good Samaritans, the dogs are safe and receiving the care they deserve,” Sheriff Rob Hardwick said.
Charges filed
Moore and Dunham were arrested by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and each face three counts of aggravated animal cruelty and 20 counts of animal neglect.