Major Animal Cruelty Investigation Results in Rescue of Over 100 Cats

Delmar, MD - Detectives with the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division conducted a large-scale animal cruelty operation on February 25, 2026. The joint effort included agents from Humane World for Animals, Animal Control Officers from the Wicomico County Humane Society, and the Salisbury City Police Department Animal Control Unit.

The investigation began in November 2025 when detectives received information about a suspected cat sanctuary. Animals at the location were allegedly being neglected and kept in inhumane conditions.

During the initial investigation, detectives determined the property housed several hundred cats. Evidence gathered led to the issuance of search and seizure warrants for the property.

Law enforcement personnel executed the warrants at approximately 7:00 a.m. on February 25, 2026. Investigators faced challenging conditions as they accessed the site through several inches of snow.

Upon entry, they found numerous cats outdoors in freezing temperatures. The animals were huddled together for warmth.

Additional cats were located in hazardous and unsanitary sheds and outbuildings. Multiple deceased cats and skeletal remains were also discovered on the property.

Agents with Humane World for Animals recovered more than 100 cats in varying states of health. The animals were transported to an undisclosed Humane World facility. They are receiving emergency veterinary care and further evaluation.

The investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information related to this case or other incidents involving animal cruelty is encouraged to contact the Wicomico County Sheriff's Office at 410-548-4891 and request the Criminal Investigation Division. Callers may remain anonymous.

Disclosure: All individuals mentioned in this article are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Eastern Shore Undercover® does not express or imply any opinion regarding the incident reported.