Detectives with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Animal Crimes Unit discovered dozens of dogs living in what the MCSO describes as horrendous and deplorable conditions during a search at a Litchfield Park home on Sept. 2, according to authorities.

The search followed a tip to Sheriff Jerry Sheridan. During the operation, detectives also found a room containing animal remains, including skeletal remains, officials said.

The investigation is ongoing. Officials said updates will be provided as they become available.

In a social media post, Sheridan said the Animal Crimes Unit will continue investigating cases like the Litchfield Park case and the effort is just the beginning.

The specialized unit focuses on enforcing animal cruelty laws and has developed case law used as an example for other agencies nationwide. Law enforcement officials noted a correlation between individuals who commit violent crimes against animals and those who go on to harm people, making these investigations a public safety priority.

Each year, the office receives numerous reports of animal cruelty through its hotline. Specially trained detectives investigate every call, which has led to the rescue and seizure of thousands of animals and hundreds of arrests, according to MCSO.

Animals rescued in these cases are placed in the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Safe Haven program, or MASH, which provides care and shelter. Supervised inmates care for the animals, receiving training in animal care and therapy before being rehomed. 

The Animal Crimes Investigations Unit has handled several high-profile cases in recent years, including mass animal fighting arrests, large-scale animal seizures, felony prosecutions and charges for related crimes discovered during animal cruelty investigations, such as drug possession, child abuse and fraud. Some cases have set legal precedents and drawn national and international attention.

Officials emphasized that animals involved in the Litchfield Park case are considered evidence and are not available for adoption.

Anyone with information about suspected animal abuse is encouraged to contact the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office tip line at (602) 876-TIPS.

Visit mcso.org for more information.