ATHENS, Ala. (WHNT) — The Athens Police Department said a couple was charged with animal cruelty and neglect following the search of a home.

APD said following an investigation, 75-year-old Larry Moore and 73-year-old Rhonda Moore were charged with 38 counts each related to animal cruelty and neglect. APD said cruelty to animals is a misdemeanor crime.

APD said on March 31, officers searched the house of an “alleged commercial dog breeding operation” on Lindsay Lane after they received a call about an odor coming from the house.

The department said Officer Paul Tucker responded to the initial call and found numerous dogs living in “squalid conditions” without access to proper veterinary care.

With help from Dr. Elisabeth O’Connor and Dr. Jorge Acosta at the Limestone Veterinary Clinic, APD said they were able to successfully remove the dogs from the residence. 

“The investigation suggested that the couple had allegedly been operating the large-scale dog breeding operation for an extended period. The couple turned themselves in to APD with bonds set at $38,000,” APD said.

Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks commented on the situation, saying, “This was a terrible situation that we do not tolerate here in our community. We took immediate steps to remedy this situation. We are so proud of the work that has been done by both the Athens Police Department and the Limestone Veterinary Clinic here in Athens.”

Athens Police Chief Anthony Pressnell also comments on the incident, saying, “These were very bad living conditions for these animals to live in. The Athens Police Department is committed to protecting all of the members of our community, including animals. This was a very bad situation, and we will continue to work to ensure that those responsible for any kind of animal abuse are held accountable.

APD said this is still an ongoing investigation and there will be no further comments at the time.

According to Dr. O’Connor, the animals will not be ready to be adopted until next week. There is a process to fill out an application online here.