After Fla. Boy’s Fatal Dog Mauling, Owners Accused of Deleting Messages About Animals’ ‘Violent Tendencies’

**Florida Women Charged with Tampering Following Boy’s Fatal Dog Attack**

Two Florida women, Amanda Franco, 31, and Brandy Hodil, 40, are facing charges for tampering with evidence linked to the tragic death of eight-year-old Michael Millett. The young boy was killed in January 2025 after allegedly being mauled by the dogs owned by Franco and Hodil while riding his bike in a residential area near DeLand.

Initial reports indicate that Michael was petting the two dogs when the incident occurred. Authorities later described the attack as particularly brutal, with Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood stating that the child was “maliciously mauled” and did not survive. Investigators concluded that he sustained 12 bite wounds, a broken neck, and a broken leg during the horrifying encounter.

The case has drawn considerable attention, with details emerging about the alleged actions taken by Franco and Hodil following the incident. It is claimed that both women deleted messages discussing the dogs’ purported “violent tendencies” and their history of running loose. These deletions are central to the charges of tampering with evidence that the women face.

Originally scheduled for a court appearance on May 26, legal proceedings were postponed, and the next hearing is now slated for September 16, with the trial anticipated to commence on September 22. The delays have raised questions and concerns within the community, particularly as the case has garnered significant media coverage.

The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that Franco was the owner of one of the dogs involved in the attack, while Hodil owned the other. Following the incident, the dogs were euthanised, a decision made after the severity of the attack became evident.

During the attack, frantic 911 calls were made to report the emergency, capturing the urgency and fear of the situation. A caller could be heard pleading for help while describing the distressing scene as the boy was being attacked by the dogs. His mother reportedly intervened, attempting to rescue her child amidst the chaos, but thankfully she was not harmed in the process.

In the aftermath, State Attorney Will Scheiner charged Franco under a dangerous dog statute, which, while serious, has faced criticism for not adequately reflecting the gravity of the situation. Those charges amount to a second-degree misdemeanor, which carries a maximum of 60 days imprisonment and a $500 fine.

Franco’s alleged deletion of her Facebook account during the investigation has been viewed unfavourably by investigators, as they believe it indicates an attempt to eradicate evidence related to the prior warnings about the dogs. Hodil is similarly accused of deleting messages and conducting online searches to deactivate her social accounts.

Both women have now been charged with felony tampering with evidence, reflecting the seriousness of their alleged actions during the investigation process. This aspect of the case has raised significant public interest, particularly as local authorities and community members express their frustration over the ongoing legal predicament.

In a previous statement, Sheriff Chitwood addressed the challenges of the legal system in addressing this tragedy, suggesting that while emotions run high, current laws may not support a manslaughter charge against the dog owners. His comments underscored a widespread sentiment that more stringent regulations regarding pet ownership and incidents involving dangerous animals may be needed.

Michael’s mother, Tiffani Connell, has voiced her opposition to any potential plea deals in the matter, indicating that she seeks justice for her son. A GoFundMe campaign established following the attack has celebrated Michael’s life and highlighted his positive qualities, remembering him as an intelligent, loving, and adventurous child who is deeply missed by his family and the community.

The case continues to develop, with both Franco and Hodil awaiting their next court date in September, as the community seeks answers and justice in the wake of this tragic incident.