Dakota Harrell, 17, was arrested and charged with seven counts of cruelty to animals on Thursday after police found several neglected animals at a residence on County Road 566 in Etoile, Texas.
On Nov. 2 2017, Nacogdoches County deputies were dispatched to the residence and found 7 dogs there who appeared to be malnourished.
Deputies also saw that some dogs were chained with no shelter and some dogs were inside kennels without food or water.
The animals appeared to be malnourished and were showing signs of other medical issues caused by being neglected.
Neighbors told deputies that they had not seen anyone at the home for several days and did not see anyone taking care of the animals.
A neighbor provided dog food for the deputies to feed and water the animals and the Sheriff's office was able to identify a suspect that owned them.
On Nov. 3 2017, deputies obtained a warrant and seized the animals who were then taken to the Nacogdoches Animal Shelter for proper medical treatment and care.
Deputies were able to reach Harrell who told them he had not fed the animals in over a week.
Law enforcement continued the investigation and discovered there was more probable cause that Harrell had neglected the dogs and did not give them the proper care.
On Nov. 15 2017, a court hearing took place and the animals were awarded to the Nacogdoches Animal Shelter.
Deputies got a warrant for Harrell's arrest for seven counts of cruelty to animals and on Thursday, Harrell turned himself to authorities and was booked into the Nacogdoches County Jail.
