Debora and Thomas Naylor, owners of a horse farm in Dorchester County, Maryland, have been charged with over 200 counts of animal cruelty involving horses, dogs, goats, and geese. The charges include failure to provide food and water, and aggravated cruelty, such as the intentional torture and neglect leading to the death of a horse with a severe leg injury. If convicted, the Naylors face more than 28 years in prison and over $100,000 in penalties.

The case came to light largely due to the efforts of three women—Nancy Ashway, an equine professional, and Michelle Louis and her daughter Ava from Halo’s Haven Rescue—who raised awareness through social media and persistent appeals to local authorities. The Dorchester County State’s Attorney’s Office emphasized the seriousness of the allegations and the legal process involved in protecting the animals, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for July 6.