Over Two Dozen Dogs Rescued From Carroll Co. Home

WESTMINSTER, MD — A Carroll County couple is behind bars on animal cruelty charges after animal control officers rescued 27 dogs from their Hampstead residence and recovered 11 dead dogs, according to media reports. The Humane Society of Carroll County announced Monday that the 27 rescued dogs "are getting the care they need and are doing well."

The dogs were rescued Friday from a house in the 4300 block of Black Rock Road in Hampstead, said the Carroll County Sheriff's Office. The next day, sheriff's deputies arrested the couple living in the house - John J. Roberts, 49; and Laura S. Filler, 55.

“This was one of the most disturbing scenes that many of the first responders have ever seen," said Carroll County Sherriff James T. DeWees. "This case is a stark reminder of the unsung work that our local animal control officers and Humane Society staff do day in and day out. I encourage everyone to support their efforts as they take care of the surviving animals that were removed from the residence.”

Roberts and Filler are being held at the Carroll County Detention Center on 51 charges, including animal cruelty, aggravated cruelty, and hazardous substance/endangering pet, the sheriff's office said.

The Humane Society said that the rescued dogs included 20 Dalmatians, five Golden Retrievers and two English Setters.

Animal Control is continuing the investigation. Anyone with information should contact the Humane Society of Carroll County or Animal Control at 410-848-4810.

Donations to assist in the care and rehabilitation of the rescued dogs can be made through the Humane Society of Carroll County at their website: hscarroll.org