The owner of a Riverhead farm denies mistreating about a hundred horses, goats, sheep and other animals.
"They are fed seven days a week, come hell or high water," Carlo Lauro told NBCNewYork by phone.
"The SPCA is terrorizing us "like the Gestapo."
Lauro's property , Arrowhead Pine Farm, was raided by SPCA investigators Sunday. Acting on an anonymous tip, they executed a search warrant and found what they call "deplorable" conditions.
At least eight animals were discovered dead and others were said to be either sick or malnourished.
"We found no food on the farm," said SPCA chief of detectives Gerald Lauber.
"We have no idea when these animals were fed last. Some had their ribs showing."
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Investigators were back at the property today, trying to determine what, if any, diseases, the animals had contracted.
"The owner will face criminal charges, if the accusations are sustained," added Lauber. So far, however, no criminal charges have been filed.
Some of the animals could be put up for adoption, the SPCA said. But Lauro vows to fight to keep them. He called the accusations, "heresay," and "slanderous," and insisted he didn't even know if the dead animals were his.
Lauro's is not a working farm. The animals are sold for pets or leased to farmers or even production companies for movie or commercials.
Upon hearing about the plight of the animals, a number of neighbors have brought food to the farm.
Debbie Nemeth was among them. She carried bags of pig feed from her SUV.
"I heard about it through the grapevine," the Wading River woman said.
" I just wanted to help the animals."
The SPCA is asking for donations of money for medication for the animals. If you are interested in helping, call the Suffolk SPCA at 631-382-7722.
