St. Petersburg Man Charged with Felony Animal Cruelty (26-025)

ST. PETERSBURG – On March 14, 2026, at approximately 2:56 p.m., deputies assigned to the Patrol Operations Bureau arrested a St. Petersburg man for Felony Cruelty to Animals.

Deputies responded to 5235 78th Street North regarding a verbal domestic disturbance. When deputies arrived, they located a deceased 7-year-old Chihuahua mix named Sheba outside of the residence.

Throughout their investigation, deputies learned that 35-year-old Christopher Howard had a designated bedroom where Sheba was not allowed. When Sheba entered the bedroom, Howard kicked her across the room. He then picked her up by the neck and threw her toward the front doorway before forcibly striking her with a chair across the neck/back. Howard then picked up Sheba by the neck again and dropped her on the ground outside.

Deputies arrested Howard and charged him with one count of Felony Cruelty to Animals. He was transported to the Pinellas County Jail.

The investigation continues.

Summary: 

Christopher Howard (Suspect – Arrested)
DOB: 08/01/1990
Address: 5235 78th Street North, St. Petersburg
Charges: Felony Cruelty to Animals