From the desk of Sheriff Bryson Meyers: On June 16, 2026, Detectives with the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division, Deputies with the Animal Control Division, Patrol Deputies, Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigator, along with Investigators with the Department of Social Services, Child Protective Services, executed a search warrant along the 2500 block of Fingerboard Road.
The search warrant was a result of a joint investigation relating to child neglect as well as animal neglect and cruelty.
As a result of the investigation, numerous animals were recovered from the residence and property, one of the animals was transported to HART for veterinarian treatment, with the remaining animals being taken to the shelter for care. Two minor children were placed in the care and custody of Social Services.
Detectives arrested and charged the following individuals: Devin James Gray, 35 years old, Oakland • 2 Counts of Child Neglect • 7 Counts of Animal Neglect & Cruelty Leah Rose Stemple, 19 years old, Oakland • 2 Counts of Child Neglect • 7 Counts of Animal Neglect & Cruelty Both Gray and Stemple were transported to the Garrett County Detention Center, where they are currently being held pending a bond hearing. Sheriff Meyers stated, "I would like to extend my appreciation to the Detectives and Deputies for their prompt and professional response in handling this matter. I also commend the collaborative efforts of the Sheriff's Office and Social Services, whose cooperation was instrumental in ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals involved."