Couple Arrested for Leaving Children Alone at Resort

A notable real estate investor from Florida and her husband have been taken into custody after authorities reported that they abandoned their two young children in a hotel room at a Key Largo resort for nearly an hour while they consumed alcohol by the pool during the Fourth of July weekend, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office.

Allison Sirica Cannella, aged 40, and her husband, Brian Nicholas Cannella, 43, both residents of Delray Beach, face two felony charges of child neglect, as per jail records.

Authorities responded to the Reef House Resort & Marina around 1:45 p.m. on Saturday following a report from a hotel staff member who noticed a baby crying for an extended period and had entered a guest room.

Officers discovered two young children left unsupervised on a bed. It was later revealed that the couple had been drinking at the hotel pool, and security footage confirmed they had left the children alone for approximately 40 minutes to an hour.

Officials notified the Florida Department of Children and Families, leading to the children being placed in the care of a family friend until child welfare arrived. Fortunately, none of the kids were seriously harmed, they noted.

Both Cannellas were booked at the Monroe County Jail, with their first court appearance set for September 1.

This incident sharply contrasts with Allison Cannella’s public persona, which is centered on elite real estate dealings, home renovation, and an active social media presence focused on her luxurious lifestyle.

Her private Instagram account showcases her work in high-end real estate and renovations, with links to her business, Exhale Vacation Rentals, highlighting her portfolio.

Brian Cannella has also been featured in local publications for his work on luxury vacation properties, including one project that significantly increased its annual rental income after a thorough redesign.

With over 15 years in real estate and law, Cannella has handled more than $25 billion in transactions, according to her company’s biography. She is currently the Senior Vice President and General Counsel, previously specializing in commercial real estate law.

Efforts to reach Allison Cannella’s business, Exhale Vacation Rentals, and the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office for further comments have yet to receive a response.