Following an anonymous complaint – Collinsville Police went to a home in the Gregory Avenue area Wednesday morning, and in a wooded area behind the residence found a total of 27 dogs in what Assistant Chief Rex Leath called “horrible” conditions.

Leath said that the dogs were cooped up in pens, and five were already dead, with the remainder uncared for and living in terrible conditions.

The surviving animals were immediately taken for treatment.

Leath said the owner no longer lived in the home and had reportedly left the dogs in the care of relatives because he had health issues; he added that the fact doesn’t condone what happened to the dogs.

Leath said it appears two people will be facing charges in connection with the case.

(al.com/www.al.com)