Months after a brutal dog attack left a man dead on Jacksonville's Westside, police say they have traced the blame back to the dogs' owner.
A 62-year-old Jacksonville man, Melvyn Souffrount, was arrested Tuesday and charged with manslaughter for his alleged role in a deadly dog attack that investigators say killed 59-year-old Ronald Coffman. Coffman was found on Ricker Road on Aug. 31, 2024, suffering multiple dog bites and later died from his injuries. The charge follows a lengthy Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office investigation into what led up to Coffman’s death.
According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, investigators concluded that Souffrount’s repeated negligent actions led to Coffman’s death. Souffrount was formally charged on May 18 and arrested later that evening, according to News4JAX.
How Florida law treats manslaughter
Under Florida law, manslaughter is defined as "the killing of a human being by the act, procurement, or culpable negligence of another" and is classified as a second-degree felony. Sentencing is governed by state statute. See Florida Statutes §782.07, as published by the Florida Senate, and the sentencing provisions in Florida Statutes §775.082, also available from the Florida Senate, for the statutory language and potential penalties.
Neighbors had warned about roaming dogs
At the time Coffman’s body was found, animal control officers seized multiple dogs from a property across the street. Neighbors told reporters the animals had escaped the gated yard and, on separate occasions, chased or bitten people. Those details were first reported by News4JAX.
"He was a very good man," one neighbor said of Coffman, according to that 2024 report.
Investigation and tips
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office homicide unit is handling the probe, and anyone with information is asked to call (904) 630-0500 or email [email protected], according to the sheriff’s public homicide page. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office posts data and contact details for active investigations.
With the manslaughter charge now filed, the case moves into the criminal courts, where upcoming filings and hearings are expected to spell out the specific allegations and the evidence investigators say connect Souffrount to Coffman’s death. This story will be updated as court records and official statements become available.
