Crime & Safety
Victim in Mental Health Center Shooting Released From Hospital
Anthony Cornelius Howard was allegedly shot in the shoulder by mental health counselor Sarah Pollard Hughey on Oct. 17. Hughey has not been charged in the incident.
The victim in a shooting at a Brandon mental health center has been released from hospital.
Anthony Cornelius Howard, 30, was by Sarah Pollard Hughey, 50, on Oct. 17 at Hughey Behavioral Inc., 9350 Bay Plaza Blvd., Suite 120. Hughey is the owner of Hughey Behavioral.
“Detectives are actively working this investigation and have not yet determined the relationship between Hughey and Howard, nor have they established the chain of events that lead to the shooting,” said Debbie Carter, a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office.
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Detectives have determined the shooting was “not a random act” and that Hughey and Howard have known each other for several months.
Hughey, who was , has not been charged.
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“We are still trying to establish what happened," Carter said Tuesday. "There have been conflicting stories."
According to her company’s website, Hughey has treated patients with mental health and addiction issues for the past 15 years.
“In my practice, I encourage people to make their needs a priority so that they can live happier and more balanced lives," Hughey wrote on her website. "Often this includes addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship/couples issues, work issues, grief / loss and addictions."
Detectives are still investigating the shooting.
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