In the US state of Maryland, a search of a landlord's home after he pointed a gun at his tenants uncovered six handguns and a number of exotic animals. According to the Charles County Sheriff's Office, 57-year-old Sir Leander Evans Gamble physically assaulted three tenants renting a trailer on his property on Penjack Place on July 3, then threatened them with a handgun.
Police officers arriving at the scene took Gamble into custody. The victims were identified as a woman, her 28-year-old son, and the son's girlfriend, who is eight months pregnant. A search of the suspect's home yielded a total of six handguns.
The incident took a different turn when Charles County Animal Control teams discovered numerous animals kept in neglected conditions on the property. The search found an alligator, a caiman, a snake, an emu, dogs, cats, and pigs.
Charles County Government media services chief Jennifer L. Harris stated that the animals were kept in conditions violating Maryland animal cruelty laws and that all were removed from the property. Animal Control's investigation into the animals' welfare is ongoing.
The tenants also claimed that a dog named Carter died because Gamble did not provide air conditioning in the trailer. However, Animal Control officials have not yet confirmed the cause of the dog's death.
Sir Leander Evans Gamble was arrested on aggravated assault charges. As the investigation continues, additional charges may be filed, authorities said. The suspect is being held without bail at the Charles County Detention Center.