News Releases

Silver Spring Man Charged with Aggravated Cruelty to Animals- 100 Birds Removed from Burtonsville Property

For Immediate Release: Monday, December 2, 2019

For Immediate Release: 12/02/19





Burtonsville, MD – The Montgomery County Police Animal Services Division seized 100 chickens from a property on Bell Rd. in Burtonsville on November 21^st. On November 18^th, while on a routine pet licensing call, an Animal Services Officer observed a number of individually housed roosters, indicative of the way in which cockfighting roosters are housed.  In addition to the individually housed roosters, the Officer observed multiple roosters who had their combs and wattles removed, a practice in cockfighting to prevent bleeding which may impair the birds’ vision when fighting.

The Search and Seizure Warrant executed on November 21^st, encompassed three properties belonging to the suspect and resulted in the seizure of 100 roosters and hens in addition to physical evidence related to the conduct, training and implements of cockfighting. An onsite assessment of the birds was conducted by the Division’s Chief Veterinarian. All relocated birds continue to receive care through the Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center.

On Tuesday, November 26^th, Raymond Romig, aged 59, of Clement Place in Silver Spring, was charged with 22 counts of aggravated cruelty to animals. If found guilty, Romig faces imprisonment not exceeding three years or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both, for each count.

Because this matter is under investigation by the Division, additional details are unavailable at this time. The Animal Services Division will update the community as soon as its investigation has concluded.

About the Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center:

The Montgomery County Animal Services and Adoption Center (MCASAC), operated by the Department of Police, Animal Services Division, provides high-standard sheltering and care to the homeless, abused, and neglected animals in our community and ensures the safety and welfare of the county’s citizens. We are the county's only open-admission, municipal shelter. Through adoptions, education, outreach, and more, MCASAC serves as a critical community resource to promote and advocate for responsible pet care.  Animal Services Officers are on-call seven days a week to investigate citizen complaints and respond to animal emergencies 24 hours a day.  For more information, please visit www.montgomerycountymd.gov/asd.

Media contact:

Thomas Koenig

Phone: (240) 773-5928

Email: Thomas.Koenig@montgomerycountymd.gov

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Release ID: 19-480
Media Contact: Rebecca Innocenti 
Categories: animal-services