An investigation into a hit-and-run crash in New Bedford, Massachusetts, led police to arrest a 43-year-old man on animal abuse charges after finding malnourished animals in his home and a dozen that were already dead.
Danny Santos was charged with nine counts of animal cruelty. It was not known Sunday if he's represented by a lawyer.
Police said they received reports early Saturday morning of a vehicle hitting parked cars and leaving. Investigators went to Santos' home and saw through a window several dogs that appeared to be malnourished, according to police.
Police called animal control and removed seven malnourished dogs and a cat. Investigators also found two dead cats in the home. They discovered skeletal remains of seven chickens and three rabbits in a backyard shed.
Police said five cages contained animals.
