Deputies in Brevard County say a woman was arrested Friday after they found a child alone inside a home described in an arrest report as filthy and guarded by aggressive dogs. The youngster had reportedly been talking to people through a bathroom window because, according to deputies, the dogs kept him from opening the front door. The affidavit also states the child told investigators he had previously been left alone for two weeks and eventually ran out of food.
Neighbors Called 911 After Hearing Child Alone
According to FOX 35 Orlando, worried neighbors dialed 911 after realizing a child appeared to be inside the home by himself. The station reports that the arrest paperwork describes the interior as dirty, covered in animal waste, and notes that the child told deputies he could not open the door because aggressive dogs were blocking it.
Booking Logs List a Child-Neglect Arrest
Per The Space Coast Rocket, Brevard County booking records show that Ashley Burdick was taken into custody on April 22 on a felony child-neglect charge. The Brevard County Sheriff's Office also offers a public arrest inquiry where recent bookings can be searched.
What the Charge Means
Under Florida law, neglect that does not cause great bodily harm is treated as a third-degree felony and can carry a prison sentence of up to five years, while neglect that results in serious injury is charged at a higher level. The criminal definitions appear in Fla. Stat. §827.03, and the sentencing framework is set out in Fla. Stat. §775.082.
Next Steps and Local Reaction
It was not immediately clear whether formal charges had been filed; prosecutors typically review arrest affidavits before deciding on indictments or other formal filings. Neighbors told reporters they were shaken by what they saw, and the arrest documents flag concerns about the condition of the home and the presence of aggressive dogs, according to FOX 35 Orlando.
