Couple busted for drugs, animal cruelty fighting in court to get their dogs back

DAVIE, Fla. — A South Florida couple that was busted for drugs and animal cruelty are fighting to get their dogs back.

Prosecutors argue they were running an illegal puppy mill out of their home.

They believe the couple’s 26 French bulldog pitbull mixes should remain in the custody of animal control.

Detectives said Sean Brodnax and his wife Danielle Palladino were not licensed to breed.

Their dogs were seized back in September when authorities served a search warrant in their home, finding fentanyl pills, and about a kilo of cocaine mixed with fentanyl.

Multiple law enforcement officers took the stand on Tuesday and were questioned by the state and pressed by the defense on the charges of animal cruelty against the couple.

The hearing will continue on Tuesday at 9 a.m. in Fort Lauderdale. The judge is expected to make a final decision Wednesday before noon.

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About The Author
Christian De La Rosa

Christian De La Rosa

Christian De La Rosa joined Local 10 News in April 2017 after spending time as a reporter and anchor in Atlanta, San Diego, Orlando and Panama City Beach.