CHAPEL HILL — A mother and son have been arrested in North Carolina after authorities seized 57 dogs and puppies from two properties.
WRAL-TV reports Chapel Hill residents 65-year-old Cynthia Riggan and 35-year-old Taylor Doar have been charged with animal cruelty.
The station reports officials searched the properties after receiving information Wednesday about malnourished animals and unsanitary conditions.
Bob Marotto is director of the Orange County Animal Services Department. He says all dogs will undergo medical evaluations and receive necessary treatment. He adds the animals will remain at a county-run facility throughout the legal process.
The station reports an investigation is ongoing.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office says Riggan and Doar are expected to appear in court Oct. 15. It's unclear whether they have attorneys who can comment on their behalf.