BREVARD COUNTY, Fla. — A Brevard County special magistrate has ordered two dogs to be euthanized following a code enforcement hearing stemming from the fatal mauling of a woman in Cocoa.
During Tuesday’s hearing, Donnell Smith recounted the horrific May 19, 2026, attack that claimed the life of his fiancée, Jodi Cowan.
Smith testified that he found the two dogs dragging Cowan along the roadway on Blue Bonnet Drive.
Smith said he believes Cowan knew she was dying after suffering devastating injuries.
The hearing focused on whether the mixed-breed dogs, Max and Mako, should be officially declared dangerous and euthanized.
The dogs’ owner, Linda Cutler, is facing a manslaughter charge in connection with Cowan’s death. Cutler was represented by an attorney during the code enforcement proceeding.
After hearing testimony, the special magistrate ruled that Max and Mako should be euthanized “in an expeditious and humane manner.”
However, a Judge’s order in Cutler’s criminal case prevents authorities from euthanizing the dogs before October 8, 2026. Cutler does have the right to appeal the special magistrate’s decision.
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