Home / Crime and Justice / Pet Owner Betrayed: Rocks for Ashes
Pet Owner Betrayed: Rocks for Ashes
3 Apr
Summary
- Man sentenced to 20 years for defrauding grieving pet owners.
- Fake crematorium returned rocks and sand instead of pet ashes.
- The accused collected thousands from at least 50 victims.
Rodney Ward, a 56-year-old man from Baltimore county, has received a 20-year prison sentence for his role in a fraudulent pet crematorium business. Operating under the name Loving Care Pet Funeral and Cremation Services in Catonsville, Ward and his wife defrauded at least 50 victims. Instead of providing cremated remains, they returned rocks and sand to grieving pet owners. The couple collected approximately $13,000 from their victims.
Investigators uncovered disturbing evidence, including eight dead animals found in a wooded area, and 38 decomposing animals discovered in a hearse at Ward's residence. The Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter was found holding the remains of several animals, awaiting identification. Victims reported receiving ashes that contained gravel, baking soda, and debris, with forensic analysis indicating building materials.
During sentencing, the judge condemned the "scope, depth and callousness" of Ward's actions. The judge indicated a possibility of sentence reduction if Ward provided information about any missing pet remains. However, prosecutors expressed doubt regarding Ward's credibility, advising victims and authorities to be skeptical of any information he might share.
