83 dogs were seized from a Central Park Heights property and taken to BARCS

Baltimore, Md. (August 15, 2024) - Today, State's Attorney Ivan J. Bates, Baltimore City Sheriff Samuel L. Cogen, and Baltimore City Animal Control - a division of the Baltimore City Health Department, announced the arrest of defendant Robert Conley on 178 counts of Animal Cruelty related to the seizure of 83 dogs from his property in Central Park Heights in May of this year. Yesterday, the Baltimore City Sheriff’s Office arrested Mr. Conley and served him with the charges.

“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.”

Baltimore City Sheriff's deputies and Animal Control officers executed the warrant on Mr. Conley's property. During the course of 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.

“I am grateful to my hardworking deputies for working this case in collaboration with our partners in the State’s Attorney’s Office and at Animal Control,” said Sheriff Sam Cogen. “The public can know that the Sheriff’s Office took our time to ensure we put together a very thorough investigation that led to 178 counts, proof that their Sheriff does not tolerate the abuse of animals in Baltimore City.” 

“I want to express my deepest gratitude to our partners from the Sheriff’s Office and the Office of the State’s Attorney for Baltimore City for their collaborative efforts,” said Mary Beth Haller, Interim Health Commissioner. “Last month’s seizure of 83 dogs and the subsequent arrest of the individual charged with animal cruelty, highlights our Animal Enforcement Officers unwavering commitment to safeguard the welfare of all animals, but more importantly this underscores the dedication and efforts from our partners to hold individuals accountable for their actions.”

The dogs seized from the property were transported to the Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS) due to their deplorable living conditions and health concerns to receive medical care and be placed for adoption or foster.

According to court documents, 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.

Upon entering the residence, deputies discovered 83 dogs, many of them on the second and basement levels. The residence had a strong ammonia smell, and dogs were found confined in crates filled with excrement. All animals were immediately evacuated from the residence for medical evaluation. 

Click here to download the charging documents related to this case. Witness information has been redacted.