Authorities: Woman Faces Over 150 Animal Cruelty Charges

CUMBERLAND, Md. (AP) -- Authorities say a Cumberland woman has been charged with more than 150 counts of animal cruelty.

The Cumberland Times-News reports that officials say 42-year-old Pepper R. Taylor was charged with 158 animal cruelty charges on Tuesday.

Animal control officials say Taylor was operating a puppy mill to raise dogs for sale. Officials say Taylor's home was raided by Allegany County Animal Control officials on July 16.

Officials say 35 dogs were rescued and taken to an animal shelter. Among the breeds of dogs rescued were a pregnant dachshund, Great Danes, Boston terriers, cocker spaniels and others.

The county's assistant state's attorney Linda Thomas says all of the charges are misdemeanors.

Officials say Taylor was released on bond. It wasn't immediately clear if she has an attorney.