PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. (Dec. 20, 2013)—An unidentified individual this morning consented to allow Calvert County Animal Control to transport 55 dogs, which were housed at the person's residence, for medical evaluation. Around 8:15 a.m., animal control personnel served a search warrant at the residence, located in the 1200 block of Lake Ridge Drive in Sunderland,
as part of an investigation into alleged animal cruelty.
The Sheriff's Office released a statement this afternoon saying that the dogs were taken "due to poor living conditions" and have been transferred to the Tri-County Animal Shelter.
"Animal Control is the voice for the animal that cannot be heard," said Sheriff Mike Evans in a prepared statement. "We will investigate this case fully and do what is best for these animals."
Since no charges have been filed, police say suspect information will be released pending the conclusion of this case. Police did not say if any of the animals might be returned to the owner. Tri-County Animal Shelter is a kill shelter.
The Sheriff's Office Special Operations Team assisted in the investigation with air monitoring and hazardous material protective equipment. This was needed due to the confined space that the animals were housed in. Crime Scene Technician G. Crump processed the scene.