RIVERHEAD, NY – A Riverhead man previously convicted in a high-profile animal cruelty case is back behind bars after authorities confiscated more than 50 animals from his property, which investigators identified as an unlicensed slaughterhouse and breeding site.
The arrest followed a tip from Humane Long Island.
Police say 52-year-old Carlos Lauro, who last year admitted to fatally shooting a dog and was banned from owning animals for 20 years, was charged with new counts of animal cruelty and contempt of court.
Officers and humane investigators found puppies in distress and dozens of underweight chickens showing signs of neglect, including damaged beaks and frostbite.
Two dozen roosters and hens are now recovering at Humane Long Island’s sanctuary.
Authorities cite repeat animal abuse, community response
The Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that Lauro was taken into custody without incident and booked into the county jail pending arraignment.
“People who abuse animals once are far more likely to do it again,” said John Di Leonardo, executive director of Humane Long Island. “That’s why Suffolk County’s new penalties for violating the animal-abuse registry are so important.”
Di Leonardo credited the DA’s BEAST Unit for acting swiftly on the organization’s report, saying their efforts saved dozens of animals from ongoing suffering.
Humane Long Island emphasized the broader issue of animal exploitation in unlicensed breeding and slaughter operations, urging the public to adopt rather than purchase pets and to consider plant-based diets.
Humane Long Island hosts Thanksgiving food distributions
In the days leading up to Thanksgiving, the group will distribute free plant-based Tofurky roasts and pet food to help families in need and promote compassionate living.
Events will take place Thursday in Manhattan with Assemblymember Harvey Epstein, Friday in Huntington with Suffolk County Legislator Rebecca Sanin, and Sunday in Hempstead with Community Solidarity.
Anyone seeking more information about the rescue, food distributions, or Humane Long Island’s sanctuary can contact the organization directly.
Key Points
- Carlos Lauro of Riverhead was arrested again for animal cruelty and contempt of court.
- Authorities rescued over 50 animals, including puppies and chickens, from his property.
- Humane Long Island is hosting Thanksgiving food distributions promoting plant-based meals.