SUFFOLK COUNTY, NY – Suffolk County authorities have arrested 76-year-old Carlos Lauro of Riverhead on charges of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and related offenses.
Lauro allegedly shot two German Shepherds and is accused of operating an illegal slaughterhouse on his property, where numerous other animals were found dead or neglected.
“Mr. Lauro is repeatedly the subject of various complaints to the Town regarding the condition of and activities at his Sound Avenue property. Responses to his property by Town Code Enforcement officials have revealed and led to prosecutions by the Riverhead Town Attorney’s Office for illegal animal sales, attempts to operate an illegal slaughterhouse, dilapidated and illegal structures, loose farm animals, and general property maintenance,” said Erik C. Howard, Town of Riverhead Attorney. “The Riverhead Town Attorney’s Office applauds the Suffolk County District Attorney’s prosecution of Mr. Lauro and is prepared to assist in any way necessary to secure a conviction for Mr. Lauro’s reprehensible conduct and wanton disregard for the life of a companion animal.”
The investigation began on Wednesday, after a one-year-old German Shepherd was discovered shot.
A subsequent search warrant executed on Thursday, led to Lauro’s arrest and the discovery of more animals in dire conditions.
Lauro faces felony and misdemeanor charges as the investigation continues.