UPDATE: Hundreds of Charges Filed in Hurlock Horse Abuse Case
UPDATE: The Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) has provided an update into an animal cruelty investigation they launched in March, announcing hundreds of charges against a Hurlock couple.
As WMDT previously reported, the DCSO launched an investigation into a Hurlock horse sanctuary on Mar. 20, but at the time found no confirmed instance of animal abuse. Sheriff James Phillips told WMDT that, under Maryland state law, if owners can prove they provide animals with food, water and shelter, it limits what authorities can do. No horses were seized at the time of the initial investigation, despite one being euthanized on scene by a veterinarian.
On Wednesday, May 13, DCSO provided an update in collaboration with Dorchester County State’s Attorney’s Office, saying criminal charges have been filed as a result of this ongoing investigation. Sixty-year-old Debora Kay Naylor faces 100 criminal charges, including felony aggravated animal cruelty, animal cruelty resulting in death, and numerous other misdemeanor counts related to failing to care for multiple animals including horses, dogs, and goats. Additionally, 69-year-old Thomas Henry Naylor faces 102 criminal charges involving similar allegations of neglect and mistreatment of animals.
Officials say the charges include allegations of serious harm to animals, including conduct resulting in the death of at least one horse, as well as prolonged deprivation of nutrition and medical care. Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, no further details have been released about the allegations at this time.
DCSO says they have been and will continue to work with veterinary professionals to determine if any animals need to be seized or rehomed.
According to court documents obtained by WMDT, a preliminary hearing in Dorchester District Court is set for the Naylors on Jul. 6 at 11:00 a.m.
DORCHESTER COUNTY, Md. – Authorities in Dorchester County are investigating a case of animal abuse and neglect.
The Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office, along with Dorchester County Dog Control and a Maryland certified veterinary specialist executed a search warrant in the 6800 block of Gravel Branch Road.
During the investigation, deputies located multiple animals, including horses and goats on the property.
Based on evaluations from a veterinarian, seizure was not deemed necessary and appropriate care recommendations were provided.
One horse was found dead and a second horse was euthanized due to pre-existing injuries.
The Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office is working with the State’s Attorney’s Office regarding charges for the responsible individuals.
This article was originally published on Mar. 20 at 9:49 p.m.
