BALTIMORE, MD—A Baltimore man has been arrested and charged with 178 counts of animal cruelty after 83 dogs were seized from his property in May.

The State’s Attorney’s Office says a warrant for Robert Conley was sent out for animal cruelty on May 23 and deputies found the 83 dogs in unsanitary conditions with many having to be rescued.

According to court documents (PDF), on May 23, 2024, at approximately 10:00 a.m., Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office of Special Operations members responded to 5102 Pembridge Avenue to assist Animal Enforcement with a Search and Seizure Warrant.

During the investigation, officers encountered such an overwhelming smell of ammonia that they noted symptoms of eye-watering and sensations of burning in their nostrils and chest. They were all taken to the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter for medical care.

“Animal cruelty is a serious and intolerable offense that reflects a deep depravity and disregard for the well-being of innocent creatures. The 178 counts of animal cruelty in this case underscores our commitment to holding those who harm animals accountable. The rescue of 83 dogs from deplorable conditions on this property demonstrates the dedication and compassion of our Sheriff’s Deputies and partners at the Baltimore City Health Department,” said State’s Attorney Ivan J. Bates. “I commend my ASA, Alison Rajk, for her outstanding work on this case and the amazing collaboration from our partnering agencies. We will pursue justice for these animals and ensure that such acts of cruelty are met with the full force of the law. Our community must stand united against animal abuse, and our office will continue to advocate for the protection and humane treatment of all animals.”

The Baltimore City Animal Control, a division of the Baltimore City Health Department, worked with the State’s Attorney’s office to prosecute the case.

This article was written with the assistance of AI and reviewed by a human editor.

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