In Bowling Green, a shocking discovery has led to serious legal consequences for two individuals. Allegany County sheriff’s deputies stumbled upon the grim sight of seven dogs’ burned remains near a home on Tulip Street. This disturbing find prompted an immediate investigation.
The investigation quickly zeroed in on two suspects. Justin Uzonna Anabaraonye, an 18-year-old from Cumberland, faces six charges of animal cruelty and one of aggravated animal cruelty. Meanwhile, 19-year-old Paul Thomas Baylor III from Bowie faces four animal cruelty charges. Anabaraonye is currently held on a $3,500 bond at the Allegany County Detention Center, and Baylor’s bond is set at $2,500. Both are awaiting bail review hearings.
The case began to unfold when deputies were alerted to photographs showing what seemed to be animals’ charred remains. A thorough search of the area revealed more than initially met the eye. In a wooded section of the property, investigators found a burn pile with remains, and scattered skeletal remains of other dogs were found across the property. A K-9 team from the State Fire Marshal’s Office detected signs of an accelerant used on the site, suggesting the fire was no accident.
The remains were sent to the Humane Society of the United States for analysis to determine the exact cause of death. The sheriff’s office received support from the Maryland State Police, the fire marshal’s office, and the Allegany County State’s Attorney’s Office in their investigation.
As the investigation presses on, authorities anticipate that additional charges may be filed. This case has drawn attention to the serious issue of animal cruelty and the importance of community vigilance in reporting and preventing such crimes.