MICHAEL W. M. HAYWOOD arrested – Five neglected Pitbulls rescued from his home and investigation underway into possible dogfighting

- Maryland, USA -

The Charles County Sheriff's Office arrested 47-year-old MICAHEL W. M. HAYWOOD (pictured).

Charles County Animal Control contacted detectives with the sheriff’s office Criminal Investigations Division, regarding an investigation into animal neglect at a residence in the 3500 block of Twinbrook Drive in Waldorf. Animal Control Officers explained to detectives that they had received a complaint about numerous dogs who were being housed in inhumane conditions.

Detectives continued to investigate and obtained a search warrant for the aforementioned property.

The warrant was executed on September 2, 2025, and detectives were assisted by the Emergency Services Team (EST), Patrol, the Neighborhood Enforcement Team (NET), and Charles County Animal Control Officers.

The search led to the discovery of a total of five Pitbulls. Three of them were found inside the garage. According to the press release by the sheriff's office, the three Pitbulls were “living in feces and urine-soaked crates.”

The other two Pitbulls were located outside, “chained and without proper shelter.”

The sheriff's office said all five dogs “were extremely thin, had cuts around their face, and some of the dogs had heavy chains around their necks weighing approximately 15 pounds, almost the weight of the dogs.”

A spokesperson for the sheriff's office tells me that no animals were found deceased on the property.

All five dogs were transported to a local emergency veterinary clinic for medical evaluation and treatment.

During the search, officials also uncovered evidence of potential dogfighting such as, but not limited to, a treadmill baited with dog toys, and large doses of antibiotics.

Additionally, deputies found four firearms in the home, belonging to HAYWOOD, who is legally prohibited from possessing them.

HAYWOOD was arrested and transported to the Charles County Detention Center, where he was charged with multiple counts of animal cruelty, prohibited possession of a firearm, illegal possession of ammunition, illegal possession of a shotgun, and wear/carry/transport of a firearm.

The investigation into possible dogfighting is ongoing, and additional charges are pending.

On the same day of his arrest, a district court commissioner released HAYWOOD from the Charles County Detention Center on personal recognizance.

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Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from the press release by the Charles County Sheriff’s Office. Please note that details may be removed or new information added should updates become available.

In the case of charges being dropped, dismissed, or the case being purged, this article will be rectified accordingly, if official documentation is provided to Voice For Us.

HAYWOOD’s mugshot shared from the Charles County Sheriff's Office

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