The Fourth of July weekend did not bring the usual celebration for a Florida couple when they were arrested after leaving their two young children alone in a hotel room for up to an hour while they drank at the pool.
According to Monroe County Sheriff's Office records, Allison Sirica Cannella, 40, and Brian Nicholas Cannella, 43, both of Delray Beach, were each charged with two felony counts of child neglect.
Deputies responded to the Reefhouse Resort & Marina in Key Largo at about 1:45 p.m. Saturday after hotel employees reported entering a guest room because an unattended baby had been crying for an extended period.
Inside, deputies found two young children alone in nursery beds. Investigators said resort employees eventually located the Cannellas at the property's pool, where they had been drinking alcoholic beverages.
Security camera footage, witness statements, and other evidence indicated the children had been left unattended for approximately 40 minutes to one hour, investigators said.
The Florida Department of Children and Families was notified, and the children were released into the custody of a family friend until child welfare officials arrived. Authorities said neither child suffered serious injuries.
Both Cannellas were arrested and booked into the Monroe County Jail. Their first court appearance is scheduled for September 1.
The arrest stands in stark contrast to Allison Cannella's public image, which centers on luxury real estate investing, home renovation, and social media. Her online profiles highlight her as a lawyer and real estate investor, showcasing luxury real estate and renovation projects.
The couple's employer's online biography describes Cannella as having more than 15 years of real estate and legal experience, working on over $25 billion in real estate and corporate transactions.
