12/31/2025
Multi-Agency Response Leads to Removal of Dogs in Animal Cruelty Investigation
Multi-Agency Response Leads to Removal of Dogs in Animal Cruelty Investigation
For Immediate Release – December 31, 2025
While responding to a routine call, Animal Control Officer Amber Morton identified multiple dogs in poor condition lacking adequate food and water. Based on her observations during the call, she suspected these dogs may have been involved in dog fighting. ACO Morton contacted the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office for investigative support and began working toward a resolution.
The Montgomery County Animal Control team worked quickly to gather evidence to justify removal of the animals from the residence and provided that to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s office to encourage the department to pursue the charges of animal cruelty. ACO Morton identified and coordinated assistance from rescue partners to support the team during the removal and securing of the animals, as well as in building the animal cruelty case. This group jumped in immediately to assist without hesitation.
On December 30, 2025, Montgomery County Animal Services, rescue partners, and The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office worked into the night to secure and rescue 21 animals in very poor condition and in need of medical care from a residence of suspected dog fighting. These animals are currently being cared for in various locations and while being evaluated and provided veterinary care.
Our deepest gratitude goes out to ACO Morton and the entire team at Montgomery County Animal services our rescue partners. This effort was able to be accomplished through the dedication of the team at Montgomery County Animal Services, leadership and support of our rescue partners, and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s office.
Many citizens are not aware that our animal control officers are not sworn law enforcement and rely heavily on local law enforcement to enforce animal welfare laws. The goal of animal services is to protect the public from dangerous domestic animals, support animal welfare and enforce the ordinances of Montgomery County. This is accomplished with a staff of 2 full time and one part time animal control officers who are on call 24/7. In addition, animal services maintains both an intake and adoption shelter, and this year provided over 1,000 rabies vaccinations, and took in over 800 animals into the shelter. Our deepest gratitude goes out to this team for their tireless dedication and support of our county and protection of all citizens including those with 4 legs.
Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Press Release - December 30, 2025 at 9:52 PM CRUELTY TO ANIMALS ARREST
On Tuesday December 30, 2025, Montgomery County Sheriff's Office Detectives executed a search warrant on a residence and property in Wadeville. With the assistance of Montgomery County Animal Control and rescue partners 19 dogs were seized from the property and are now receiving care.
Robert Phillip Hill age 51 of Mount Gilead has been arrested and charged with FELONY CRUELTY TO ANIMALS.
Sheriff Pete Herron stated this investigation is in the early stages and will continue into Wednesday with more charges likely. We will continue to update with more information as it becomes available over the next day or two. Herron also stated he is thankful for the assistance of animal control and our rescue partners in this investigation.
Hill is currently being held in the Montgomery County Detention Center under No Bond.
Per NC General Statute NC 15A-532 bond amounts are not set by law enforcement officers.
