Watchdog calls for $200K in fines after piglet deaths at Johns Hopkins University

BALTIMORE (WBFF) — A national animal research watchdog has filed a federal complaint against Johns Hopkins University, alleging violations of the Animal Welfare Act and calling for more than $200,000 in fines related to the deaths of more than a dozen piglets.

The complaint was filed with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) by Stop Animal Exploitation NOW! (SAEN), a nonprofit organization that investigates animal research facilities.

According to SAEN, the complaint asks the USDA to impose the maximum penalty of $12,722 per violation, per animal, which the organization says could total more than $200,000.

SAEN alleges the violations stem from two USDA inspections conducted during the first half of 2026 and include failures to provide adequate veterinary care, use of unqualified personnel, and failure to follow approved research protocols.

The organization said the alleged violations resulted in the deaths of one common marmoset and 15 piglets.

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Some died in the days following birth when researchers caring for them did not seek out veterinary help despite documented decline of the piglets, while others died when staff putting tubes down their throats lacked the appropriate training, causing the piglets to choke to death on their own vomit, according to our media partners at The Baltimore Sun.

“The USDA has thoroughly documented the unnecessary deaths of fifteen piglets, and one marmoset in two failed inspections during the first six months of 2026. All of these incidents point out the gross incompetence and ineptitude of Johns Hopkins University laboratory staff,” said Michael A. Budkie, A.H.T., executive director at SAEN.

Budkie also called on the USDA to pursue the maximum penalties allowed under the Animal Welfare Act.

The USDA is responsible for enforcing the Animal Welfare Act, which regulates the treatment of certain animals used in research, exhibition and commercial activities.

Johns Hopkins University has not publicly responded to the allegations.

The SAEN Federal Complaint, which includes the reports from both failed USDA inspections is available above.