Woman found guilty following large-scale animal cruelty investigation

SNOW HILL, Md. – A woman has pleaded guilty following a large-scale animal cruelty investigation in Worcester County.

Thursday, Patricia Gadaleta was found guilty of theft scheme and multiple counts of animal cruelty and was sentenced to 10 years in prison with all but 3.5 years suspended.

The conviction follows a search and seizure warrant in June of 2025 at a residence in Snow Hill.

There, members of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office and assisting agencies seized 57 dogs and 9 cats from conditions that were “significant and deeply concerning.”

The animals were confined in crates and located in basements, garages and sheds without air conditioning or proper ventilation.

The crates also contained multiple animals, with a majority covered in urine and feces.

In addition, veterinary assessments revealed numerous medical concerns.

Through coordinated efforts with Humane World for Animals, 30 of the dogs were able to be rehomed and local shelters provided assistance with the remaining animals available for adoption.

Gadaleta is believed to have bought and sold numerous dogs using multiple aliases and fraudulent methods, and investigators believe additional individuals and bussineses may have been victimized.

Anyone who believes they may have been a victim, or who has information relevant to this investigation, is asked to contact the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office at 410-632-1111.