HENDERSON COUNTY, Texas (KLTV) – Authorities arrested an Athens man on Friday after finding four dogs that had died and were still chained up, along with 12 others in bad health.
Officers were called to a residence on PR 8502 south of Athens for a report of animal cruelty, according to a release from the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office.
When deputies arrived, they said they saw four dogs that had died but were still chained up. Twelve more were found to be emaciated, with fleas, ear infections and fight-related injuries, according to Athens Animal Services, which took custody of the dogs. Rescuers said the dogs “displayed no vicious tendencies, only requiring nutrition and compassion.”
The owner, Jerry Lane Fontenot, 59, was arrested. He has been charged with 14 counts of cruelty to animals by neglect (misdemeanors) and four counts of animal cruelty causing death (felonies). His total bond has been set at $26,000.
Athens Animal Services has said their shelter was already at capacity, and they are requesting donations of dog food, toys, supplies or monetary contributions to help support their work. Find more information on their Facebook page.
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