Dogs found living in filth confiscated from Morrisania home in the Bronx

MORRISANIA, Bronx (WABC) -- Officials took nearly a dozen dogs from a Bronx home Wednesday morning after they were found living in filthy conditions.

Police went to the home to serve a warrant for drugs, and a man identified as James Hines was taken into custody. But since the dogs were found, the ASPCA is looking into additional charges of animal cruelty.

Officers had responded before to the home in the 1200 block of Tinton Avenue in the Morrisania section after neighbors complained about the way the dogs there were being kept, but only on Wednesday did they remove the pit bulls from the home.

The animals were found with thick collars around their necks and were secured to a fence with heavy chains. Police say four of the animals had to ride out this past weekends blizzard in the backyard, in makeshift shacks with no insulation or heaters.

The dogs were said to be friendly and timid.

A total of 10 pit bulls were taken away, nine females and one male. Officials said they believe the dogs, which were living in their own feces and urine, were used for breeding.

The situation was deplorable inside the home as well, officials said. They reportedly found several crates and chains, and the house reeked of urine and feces. They also found 30 bags of crack cocaine and 20 vials of heroin.

Officers said they believe Hines was living there, but that several of the rooms in the house may have been rented out.

Sources told Eyewitness News that Hines was arrested in March for not feeding some of the dogs, which were found undernourished. At that time, some had open wounds on their tails and scabs on the backs and paws.