On July 4, 2011 between the hours of 8:30pm and 11:30pm, Parker, a 4 year old Golden Retriever, was stolen from the backyard of Kevin and Brenda Brown. The yard was fenced in and there was no sign of forced entry. Kevin and Brenda Brown, a high school football coach and sign language teacher, began to search for Parker. Their search did not lead to a happy ending.
Two weeks later, Parker’s body was discovered floating in Hopkins Creek, two blocks from his home. His body became dislodged from the tarp he was wrapped in, which had been weighted down with cinder blocks. Police stated the cause of death could not be determined due to the condition of his body but on August 1, 2011 they declared Parker’s death to be the result of animal cruelty.
This case is under investigation but the perpetrator is still at large. Residents of Jacksonville Beach, FL need to be aware of the danger surrounding their homes. There is suspicion of three other dogs having fallen prey to the individual or individuals involved in this animal cruelty. It can not be stressed enough to keep your animals under supervision at all times, regardless of a leash, outdoor shelter or fenced in yard.
A reward of $15,000 is being offered to help find Parker’s killer. If you have any information regarding Parker’s murder or other animal cruelty cases in the same area around June to August please call the Crime Stoppers tip line at 866-845-8477. Visit First Coast Crime Stoppers for more information.
Supporters of Parker have joined forces on his Facebook page Let’s Find Parker’s Killer.