Woman Sentenced in Worcester County Animal Cruelty Case Involving Dozens of Neglected Animals
SNOW HILL, Md. – A Worcester County woman has been sentenced after pleading guilty in a large-scale animal cruelty and fraud investigation that led to the seizure of dozens of dogs and cats from a Snow Hill property, authorities said.
On June 10, 2025, members of the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office, Worcester County Bureau of Investigation and Worcester County Animal Control executed a search warrant at a residence in Snow Hill with assistance from the Worcester County State’s Attorney’s Office.
Investigators said they discovered 57 dogs and nine cats living in what officials described as dangerous and unsanitary conditions. Authorities said the animals were confined in crates located in basements, garages and sheds without air conditioning or proper ventilation. Many crates contained multiple animals covered in urine and feces.
Officials said deputies and animal control officers worked throughout the day to remove the animals as temperatures climbed. After being transported to the county animal control facility, veterinarians evaluated each animal and provided emergency care, including cooling measures for several dogs suffering from heat-related distress.
Veterinary examinations revealed a range of medical problems, including emaciation, broken teeth, untreated infections, skin conditions, intestinal parasites, tick-borne illnesses and other serious conditions, some considered life-threatening or untreatable, according to investigators.
Authorities said Humane World for Animals assisted with additional veterinary care, and 30 of the dogs were later rehomed. Local shelters and humane societies also helped care for and place the remaining animals available for adoption.
On May 21, 2026, Patricia Gadaleta was found guilty of theft scheme charges and multiple counts of animal cruelty. She was sentenced to 10 years in prison, with all but 3½ years suspended.
Investigators said the case revealed Gadaleta bought and sold dogs using multiple aliases and fraudulent methods. Authorities said she was known to use several names, including Missy Adams, Page Benakowski, Page Benna, Meg Kippler and Aubrey Newman, among others.
The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities believe additional victims or businesses may have been affected. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Worcester County Sheriff’s Office.
