BALTIMORE (WJZ/CNN) – A Baltimore veterinarian has been charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty and witness intimidation after detectives say he physically attacked some of his patients.
After a month-long investigation, 57-year-old Gregory Burbelo was arrested Tuesday.
Police say the veterinarian was involved in several incidents of animal abuse at the Boston Street Animal Hospital in October and November.
On Nov. 3, Burbelo allegedly used his hands to attack a dog inside the hospital and attacked another dog with a clipboard. Authorities say he had previously attacked a dog on Oct. 28.
"We know that he punched and also slapped the animals with a clipboard, punched and smacked with an open hand and closed fist,” Capt. Jaron Jackson said.
Detectives say Burbelo also threatened several hospital employees, so they would not report him.
The Boston Street Animal Hospital is still open, but Burbelo no longer works there.
A staffer says the hospital removed Burbelo’s name from their website as soon as they found out what he was accused of.
"We want our clients and the public to know that we set and enforce the highest possible standards of care,” said the animal hospital in a statement.
Those who trusted the disgraced veterinarian say there’s no excuse for violence.
"Anybody mistreating animals, there's a special place in hell for them,” said one man who brought his animal to the hospital.
The Maryland State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners confirmed it is “aware of the situation but cannot comment on an ongoing investigation.”
Police are urging owners who have had their pets treated at the hospital to call them. They say there could be more victims.
Copyright 2017 WJZ, Baltimore Police Department via CNN. All rights reserved.
