Prince Frederick Couple Charged After Dog Found Tethered Without Water, Shelter

PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. — Two Calvert County residents have been issued criminal summonses after animal control officers say a dog was left tethered outside for hours without proper water, shelter, or care.

Amanda Louise Phillips, 28, and Vashawn Eugene Parran, 29, both of Prince Frederick, Maryland, were charged in connection with the April 24, 2026 incident involving a black pit bull mix named “Fresh,” according to court documents.

Animal control officers responded to a home on West Avenue after receiving multiple complaints about a dog tied to a tree and barking continuously. Witnesses reported the animal had been outside for several hours.

When officers arrived, they found the dog tethered to a tree with a line wrapped tightly around it, restricting movement. The dog did not have access to clean drinking water or adequate shelter, according to the report. Officers had to untangle the tether before securing the animal.

The dog, identified as “Fresh,” was later transported to the Linda L. Kelley Animal Shelter, where it was impounded. Authorities left notices at the residence advising the owners how to reclaim the animal and outlining requirements for proper care.

Investigators determined both Phillips and Parran were responsible for the dog’s care. According to statements, each acknowledged involvement in leaving the dog outside, and officials noted prior discussions about animal care requirements.

Phillips faces multiple misdemeanor charges, including failing to provide proper care, restricting a dog’s movement, failing to provide water and shelter, keeping a dog in unsafe conditions, and leaving an animal unattended.

Parran faces similar charges, including failing to provide proper care, failing to provide adequate shelter and water, keeping a dog in unsafe conditions, and unlawful outdoor tethering.

Both were issued criminal summonses rather than arrested. A preliminary inquiry is set for June 15, 2026, in Calvert District Court.

Under Maryland law, animal cruelty and related neglect charges are typically misdemeanors punishable by up to 90 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000 per count, with additional penalties possible for repeated violations.

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