On 4/12/22, Deputies responded to an animal complaint of a donkey roaming unattended on Deaton Bridge Road. Philip Hayes who is an independent livestock contractor was contacted for assistance. A short time later Hayes arrived, and our Deputy left the call. We later learned, the donkey was shot by Hayes and killed.
This case was assigned to our Major Crimes Unit for investigation. It was determined through investigations that Hayes committed an act to an animal which resulted in cruel death and did not use humane methods in the killing of the livestock to prevent needless suffering.
Witnesses stated that before the killing, Hayes was observed hand feeding the animal and refused to use equipment provided by the witness to facilitate the capturing of the animal. It was at this point, Hayes proceeded to his vehicle to obtain a firearm.
Philip Hayes is being charged with the following violations of Florida State Statutes:
- Inhumane Slaughter of Livestock (Second Degree Misdemeanor)
- Torture-Inflict Pain and Serious Injury/Death. (Third Degree Felony)
Hayes turned himself in during overnight hours.
The above press release is from SRSO.
Navarre Newspaper reminds our readers that Philip Hayes is presumed innocent unless found guilty in a court of law.
