On Thursday, Turlock Police arrived in the 400 block of S. First Street to conduct follow-up in an animal abuse investigation.

Detectives and investigators served a search warrant at three houses on the same block in the investigation, which began in early March after animal control officers expressed their concerns based on prior contacts in the area. ACO Borges took the initiative to compile all documentation related to the addresses and handed it over to detectives for review.

During the course of the investigation, surveillance revealed about 10 dogs that were tethered in the yards. Tethering is a term to describe the act of fastening an animal to a stationary object, which is illegal in California.

With the assistance of patrol and animal services, detectives located and rescued 73 dogs from the properties, some of which were pregnant and due to deliver any day. The living conditions that the dogs were living in were deplorable and inhumane.

All dogs were seized as evidence and transported to the animal shelter where they have remained safe and cared for. Each dog has been evaluated by a veterinarian and treated for any diseases or injuries.

The suspect in the case has been identified as Jorge Ayala, 64, of Turlock, whose whereabouts are currently unknown.

Due to the high number of dogs at the shelter and limited space, owner surrenders will not be accepted until further notice. There are currently ten dogs at the shelter that aren’t part of the investigation and need to be adopted or sent to rescues as soon as possible. All fees will be waived.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information that could assist is encouraged to call Detective Matthew Ulrich at 209-668-6570.