Scammer
Banned
[video]http://www.wbaltv.com/r/26480661/detail.html[/video]
COLUMBIA, Md. -- Police in Howard County recovered 78 rabbits living in poor conditions in a Columbia home.
According to Howard County police, officers acting on an anonymous tip found 64 rabbits roaming free in the house this week. Police said the homeowner agreed to surrender the rabbits to Animal Control.
Police said officers returned to the house in the 5800 block of Barnwood Place in Columbia on Thursday and found an additional 14 rabbits, bringing the total to 78.
"These rabbits were roaming free," said Elizabeth Schroen, of the Howard County Police Department. "There was a significant amount of clutter and debris in the home. The animal wastes were kind of overtaking the home."
Police said the animals were found dirty and in an unsafe environment, but that they are in good health. A veterinarian is examining the animals before they are prepared for adoption.
Police said an investigation continues by Animal Control officials to determine whether a 46-year-old woman and her 18-year-old son will face criminal or civil charges.
Neighbor Sherry Fackler-Berkowitz said the woman and her son have lived in the home for several years.
"I haven't heard any complaints, and it's hard for me to believe that she would have that many rabbits and nobody would have known," she said.
"Were currently evaluating whether or not criminal or civil charges would be appropriate in this case," Schroen said. "We've also referred some information to the health department about the safety of the living situation for the residents."
Authorities are working with rescue groups to find adoptive homes for the rabbits. Police said a $30 fee is charged for rabbit adoption, which covers the cost of mandatory spay or neuter surgery.
