Charlotte County Animal Control Officer Receives Statewide Animal Control Officer of the Year Award

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (March 18, 2026) - Senior Animal Control Officer Emily Graham of Charlotte County Animal Control has been named the Florida Animal Protection and Advocacy Association Animal Control Officer of the Year, a statewide honor recognizing outstanding service, leadership, and dedication to animal welfare.

Graham, who has served with Charlotte County Animal Control for six years, was selected for the award based on her exceptional investigative work, leadership within the department, and commitment to protecting animals and serving the community.

"Emily's dedication to protecting animals and advocating for their well-being is evident in every case she handles," said Animal Control Division Manager Brian Jones. "Her compassion for animals, dedication to thorough investigations, and willingness to go above and beyond for both the community and her team make her incredibly deserving of this statewide recognition. Emily's work has made a lasting impact on the animals and residents we serve."

Throughout 2025, Graham led several complex animal cruelty investigations and played a key role in strengthening operational practices within the department. One of her most notable cases involved Bruce, a severely neglected German shepherd that Graham confiscated due to cruelty and neglect. She worked tirelessly to advocate for Bruce's medical care, navigating logistical and financial challenges to ensure the dog received life-saving treatment, including the surgical removal of damaged ears. After months of recovery and rehabilitation, Bruce regained his health and was successfully adopted into a loving home.

Graham also led the preparation and execution of a search and seizure warrant at a Port Charlotte residence that resulted in the rescue of eight neglected animals, including dogs, macaws, and a chicken. Her thorough casework and coordination with legal authorities helped ensure the animals were safely removed and the investigation was successfully pursued.

In addition to her investigative work, Graham has contributed to improving departmental operations and training.

Her work throughout the year has earned praise from both the public and her colleagues. Graham consistently serves as a trusted resource for fellow officers, offering guidance and support while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism.

The Florida Animal Protection and Advocacy Association's Animal Control Officer of the Year award recognizes professionals across the state who demonstrate exceptional dedication to animal protection, investigative excellence, and community service. FAPPA recognizes one animal control officer a year for this award.

For information, contact Ashley Turner at 941-833-5610 or [email protected].

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