Columbia Animal Welfare Society board members charged with 50 counts of animal cruelty

COLUMBIA, Md. (FOX 5 DC) - Two members of the Animal Welfare Society of Columbia are facing 50 counts of animal cruelty after investigators accused them failing to properly care for a variety of pets.

According to Howard County Animal Control personnel, 165 animals were found living in poor conditions at the location on Davis Road – including cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, and turtles.

Scott Pascucci, 48, and Julie Mazurkiewicz, 46 were arrested after investigators received a tip about overcrowding, and a foul smell at the facility.

The officers say that more than 100 animals have been placed in good homes – and some are still available for adoption.

Others were too sick and needed to be euthanized,

The pair were arrested and then released on $25,000 bond. Each of the 50 counts could carry a $1,000 fine and 90 days in jail.