The owner of a controversial animal rescue group is accused of neglecting the dogs in her care.

Barbara Sanelli, of Friends of Freddie Pet Rescue in Middle Island, has been charged with animal neglect. Officials say more charges could be filed.

The SPCA says Sanelli didn't provide proper medical care to rescue dogs.

Suffolk County SPCA Chief Roy Gross says his office has received dozens of complaints about Friends of Freddie.

He says some so-called shelters are nothing more than pet shops in disguise.

"A pet store will sell a dog. A not-for-profit rescue group takes an adoption fee. Some of these fees can be exorbitant," he says.

The shelter is currently being investigated by the Attorney General. It was shut down permanently in April.