State Attorney Dennis Ward announced on Nov. 25 that Edmund Christopher James has been found guilty of animal cruelty, a first-degree misdemeanor under Florida Statute 828.12(1). The conviction stems from incidents between July 5 and July 6, 2024, during which James subjected a chocolate Labrador retriever, Jasmine, to neglect and life-threatening conditions, ultimately leading to her death.
The four-day trial, presided over by Judge James Morgan, culminated in a unanimous guilty verdict after less than four hours of jury deliberation. Assistant State Attorney Nick Trovato prosecuted the case, with Hal Schuhmacher serving as defense counsel. James faces up to 364 days in county jail, court costs and a fine of up to $1,000.
The incident began on July 5, 2024, when James left Jasmine locked in a hot car for an extended period. When James finally discovered her suffering from heat-related distress, he attempted to cool her down with a hose before transporting her to Keys Animal Hospital in Marathon. Veterinary staff determined Jasmine was in critical condition and was displaying symptoms consistent with severe heatstroke, including elevated body temperature, neurological distress and swelling of the brain.
Veterinarians administered IV fluids and oxygen, stabilizing Jasmine temporarily, and strongly recommended that she be transferred immediately to a specialized emergency care facility in Ramrod Key for advanced treatment. They warned James that the dog’s condition was life-threatening without further care, including medications to reduce brain swelling. Despite these urgent recommendations, James refused to take Jasmine to the emergency facility, citing unspecified reasons. He brought her home instead, where her condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to multiple seizures and ultimately her death the next morning.
Chief Assistant State Attorney Joseph Mansfield commented on the strength of the case presented to the jury. “The evidence presented at trial painted a clear picture of extreme neglect, cruelty and a refusal to act in Jasmine’s best interest,” he said. “This case highlights the tragic consequences of failing to provide basic care to animals who depend entirely on their owners for safety and well-being.”
Trovato condemned James’ actions saying, “This was not an unfortunate accident. Jasmine suffered needlessly because of Edmund James’ blatant negligence and refusal to take even the most basic steps to save her life. There is no excuse for mistreating animals, and this case is a powerful reminder that anyone who abuses or endangers defenseless animals will be held fully accountable under the law.”
The state attorney’s office said the case can be a reminder of the responsibilities that come with pet ownership and the consequences of neglect and abuse, and urges residents to report suspected animal cruelty immediately and to act promptly on veterinary recommendations to prevent unnecessary suffering.
