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

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.