La Plata resident Brian Christopher Stine, 54, received an 18-month unsupervised probation sentence in Charles County District Court on Jan. 9, 2026, after pleading guilty to one count of misdemeanor animal cruelty. The court also ordered Stine to pay more than $17,000 in restitution to the Charles County Animal Care Center for costs related to caring for the rescued dogs.
The case stemmed from a June 27, 2025, response by Charles County Animal Control officers to the 8700 block of Bel Alton Newton Road in Bel Alton. Authorities arrived after receiving a report of a loose dog and additional concerns about multiple dogs confined in cages in a wooded area. Officers discovered 11 hound- and beagle-type dogs, including some puppies, held in kennels with roughly four inches of accumulated mud, excrement, and standing water. No clean or dry space existed for the animals to rest. One dog remained restrained by a tangled tether on top of a trailer, severely limiting its movement.
These conditions, combined with other signs of mistreatment observed at the scene, prompted Stine to surrender the dogs to Animal Control. Officers transported the animals to the Charles County Animal Care Center in Hughesville, where they entered protective custody. Staff provided veterinary care, rehabilitation, and eventual placement; many of the dogs were adopted by local families or transferred to rescue organizations for further rehoming.
Charles County Animal Control emphasized the importance of community vigilance in protecting animals. Officials encourage residents who witness potential neglect or cruelty to report it promptly. The agency can be reached at 301-609-3425 for concerns or tips.
This resolution highlights ongoing efforts by Charles County authorities to address animal welfare violations through investigation, enforcement, and rehabilitation. The restitution amount reflects expenses for medical treatment, boarding, and care provided by the Animal Care Center during the dogs’ recovery and transition to new homes. Such cases underscore the resources required to remediate neglect and the role of public reports in initiating swift action to safeguard vulnerable animals.
The incident occurred in a rural section of Bel Alton, part of southern Charles County, where isolated properties sometimes house working or hunting dogs. Hound breeds like those involved often serve in field roles, but proper housing standards must still apply under Maryland law to prevent suffering. No additional charges beyond the single misdemeanor count were detailed in the announcement, and the unsupervised probation allows Stine to remain in the community while under court oversight.
Animal Control’s response demonstrated coordinated handling from initial call to surrender, transport, and long-term care. The successful adoptions and rescues illustrate positive outcomes possible when agencies and the public collaborate on welfare issues. Residents play a key role by observing and reporting conditions that may indicate distress, helping prevent escalation and ensuring animals receive timely intervention.