Devastation in Deltona Lakes (32725): Ex-Boyfriend Kills Woman’s Family Dog ‘Out of Spite,’ Say Deputies – ARREST MADE

Deltona Lakes (32725) – A Volusia County man is behind bars after allegedly killing his ex-girlfriend’s family dog in a brutal act of revenge, authorities say. The emotionally charged case has shocked the local community and reignited debate over animal cruelty laws and domestic violence protections.

A 22-year-old man from Deltona is facing felony animal cruelty charges after deputies say he killed his ex-girlfriend’s family dog just days after she ended their relationship. The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Wednesday that the suspect, identified as Luis Andino, intentionally targeted the dog in an act of retaliation, describing it as “spiteful and deliberate.”

The chilling incident occurred over the weekend at a home near Elkcam Boulevard and Abeline Drive. According to investigators, Andino allegedly let himself into the property while the woman was away, then lured the dog—an 8-year-old Labrador mix named Max—outside, where he beat and fatally injured the animal.

Key Facts

• BREAKING: Deltona man arrested for killing ex-girlfriend’s dog “out of spite”

• IMPACT: 1 family dog killed, emotional trauma for household

• OFFICIAL SOURCE: “This was a deliberate, vengeful act.” – Sheriff Mike Chitwood

• ACTION: Report animal abuse to 1-877-TIP-VOCA or volusiasheriff.gov

“This wasn’t an accident. It was a calculated act of cruelty fueled by rejection,” said Sheriff Mike Chitwood.

The victim, who has not been named for safety reasons, returned to find the lifeless dog in the backyard and immediately contacted authorities. Neighbors told deputies they had previously seen Andino pacing near the home following the breakup, which occurred earlier in the week.

Andino was arrested late Tuesday after a tip led deputies to a motel in nearby Orange City. He faces multiple charges including felony animal cruelty, trespassing, and intimidation.

Hyperlocal Impact

1. Precise Location:
   Deltona Lakes (32725) – near Elkcam Blvd and Abeline Dr, residential subdivision

2. Community Connection:

   “Max was like the neighborhood mascot—always gentle with kids. This is sickening.”
   – Cheryl Dubois, neighbor and dog walker

Animal rights advocates and domestic violence organizations are rallying behind the victim, pointing to the killing as part of a pattern of abuse that often escalates after breakups. A candlelight vigil for Max is scheduled for Friday.

Exclusive Angle

• WHY THIS MATTERS NOW:
  This is the third animal cruelty case in Volusia County this year linked to domestic disputes, highlighting the need for stronger legal protections for pets as extensions of family units. Animal cruelty often signals deeper behavioral threats.

Update Log

• 8:30 AM: Andino arrested at Orange City motel without incident

• 11:10 AM: Sheriff confirms prior domestic disturbance calls linked to suspect

• 3:00 PM: Vigil for Max announced for Friday evening at Timber Ridge Park