Several dead and malnourished dogs found at Warwick residence

WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — Warwick Police said a man has been arrested after they found three dead dogs and four malnourished dogs at a residence on Sand Pond Road.

22-year-old Michael J. Diaz of Warwick was arrested and charged with three felony counts of unnecessary cruelty to animals resulting in death and four misdemeanor counts of unnecessary cruelty to animals, and failing to provide adequate living conditions.

At 12:19 p.m. on Monday, Warwick Police responded to Sand Pond Road for the report of an unhealthy-looking dog in the backyard of a residence.

Warwick Animal Control Officers responded and found one dog severely emaciated with open sores in the backyard.

Officers said they could hear additional dogs inside the residence and could smell of feces, urine and decay.

Police said they obtained a search warrant and found three dead dogs and four malnourished and emaciated dogs which were seized from the residence and transported to the Warwick animal shelter for treatment.

Diaz will be held at Warwick Police Headquarters until his hearing at the Third District Court in Kent County on Aug. 27, 2024.

Police said the investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact 401-468-4261.