HOWARD TAFT BLAIR II arrested for strangling a puppy to death

- Florida, USA -

The Flagler County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 55-year-old HOWARD TAFT BLAIR II (pictured), in connection with an abhorrent incident that took place back in January.

According to the office’s release, on January 25, 2025, deputies responded to a residence on 14 Warwick Place in Palm Coast to investigate an animal complaint. Upon arrival they learned from BLAIR’s wife that their 15-month-old American Bulldog/Labrador Retriever mix named Nutmeg had died the night before.

In addition to Nutmeg, there were four other dogs who were living at the residence. The affidavit described three of the four dogs as teacup Chihuahuas named Jackson, Pico, and Squirrel.

From the investigation it emerged that BLAIR had strangled Nutmeg to death after she bit Jackson during feeding. After killing Nutmeg, BLAIR wrapped her in a blanket, placed her in a plastic bin, and buried her in the backyard.

On May 27, 2025, detectives obtained a warrant for BLAIR’s arrest based on evidence gathered during the investigation.

BLAIR was finally arrested on May 29, 2025. He was transported to the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility and released after posting a $2,500 bond.

According to the arrest report, when deputy Murphy arrived at the residence to arrest BLAIR, “there were multiple dogs, along with an excessive amount of urine and dogs feces on the home's floor.”

I reached out to the Flagler County Sheriff's Office to inquire about the other dogs. A spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, then contacted Palm Coast Animal Control to acquire the information I requested, and I learned that the other dogs were not removed from the residence!

To my question about their well-being, the answer was: “The wellness check revealed the dogs to be doing well.”

Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly said: “I commend our deputies for thoroughly investigating this case. If you hurt or kill an innocent animal, we will find you and put you in the Green Roof Inn where you belong.”

Court records show the murderer’s arraignment is set to take place on June 24, 2025, at 8:30 a.m. before Judge Dawn Nichols.

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Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from the press release by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. Please note that details may be removed or new information added should updates become available.

In the case of charges being dropped, dismissed, or the case being purged, this article will be rectified accordingly, if official documentation is provided to Voice For Us.

BLAIR’s mugshot shared from the Flagler County Sheriff's Office

Nutmeg's pictures shared from Rhonda Blair's Facebook account

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