Merced County, California – Earlier this week, a 34-year-old man was arrested after multiple starved and neglected animals were found at a residence in the 5200 block of Utah Street in Merced. According to the Merced County Sheriff’s Office, Ricardo Fontes is facing multiple charges stemming from the disturbing discovery.
The authorities said two horses, six dogs, and 12 puppies were found on the property to be malnourished and emaciated.
The neglected animals were seized by animal control and are receiving veterinary care for their various maladies, including starvation.
Fontes was booked into the Merced County Sheriff’s Office Jail for 8 counts of felony animal cruelty.
This remains an active investigation, and anyone with information is urged to contact the Merced County Sheriff’s Office at 209.385.7445. Callers may remain anonymous.
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