Richard Stockman, Jr., 43, of Bay Springs has been arrested and charged with 45 counts of animal cruelty. Charges were pending the conclusion of an investigation after a October 21 raid in which over 45 neglected dogs were seized from Stockman’s residence, a suspected puppy mill. Each of the charges is a misdemeanor.

During the raid, several local and one national agency seized the animals after reports of animal neglect were made to the Animal Cruelty Investigations.

The dogs seized had ailments that ranged from malnutrition to matted hair and no teeth or gums.

Most of the dogs were transferred to the Oxford Animal Rescue League where they are undergoing rehabilitation and awaiting adoption.

Stockman was originally cited for animal neglect because he was caring for his ill mother. Cross originally reported, back in October, that once the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, ASPCA, concluded their investigation, Stockman would be charged.

He is currently out on $22,500 bond. He will face a judge in Justice Court on December 2 where he, if found guilty, could face a fine on each charge and up to six months per count.