Event Brief
Winter Haven woman charged after animals found dead
By The BriefBrief · Sources (1)
Filed: Oct 02, 2026 at 2:20 PM ET
UPDATED Oct 02, 2026 at 3:20 PM ET
Summary: Polk County deputies arrested 59-year-old Melissa McKinney on Thursday after finding more than 15 dead animals and several health hazards at her Logan Lane property in Winter Haven. Deputies had first responded earlier in the week to reports of diseased and deceased animals; the sheriff's office announced the arrest.
WHO: Melissa McKinney, 59; Polk County Sheriff's Office
WHAT: A Winter Haven woman was arrested and charged after deputies found more than 15 dead animals and several health hazards on her property.
WHEN: Oct 02, 2026 at 2:20 PM ET
WHERE: Winter Haven, Florida
WHY: The alleged offense involved diseased and deceased animals and health hazards on the property.
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