More than 100 dogs were rescued and a Paulding County man was arrested after authorities uncovered a large-scale illegal dog fighting operation

Lemark Burrell, 55, was charged with animal cruelty and dog fighting.

On Tuesday, using multiple search warrants, several agencies carried out a raid at a home located at 1040 Old Cartersville Road. Investigators say they found 106 dogs, mostly pit bulls. The Paulding County Sheriff’s Office described the scene and the condition of the dogs in a release on Friday.

“Some of the dogs were severely underweight, while others were strong and extremely aggressive toward other dogs,” the sheriff’s office wrote. “The heartbreaking part is that most of these animals simply wanted care and attention from the deputies and detectives at the scene.”

The sheriff’s office went on to explain that many of the dogs outside were found tied to trees and metal stakes, showing signs they were not being given proper food and water.

“These animals were restrained using large and very heavy logging chains and thick collars,” the sheriff’s office wrote. “Many of these dogs were left exposed to harsh weather conditions with little to no shelter for extended periods.”

Investigators say the dogs were also not receiving veterinary care and had not been given proper vaccinations.

Inside, conditions were just as concerning.

“Some of the dogs were kept in the basement of the home where the presence and odor of waste was so strong, authorities had to wear protective equipment just to safely enter,” the sheriff’s office wrote. “The conditions where dogs were kept, both inside and outside, were not suitable for living beings.”

The dogs were taken in by various rescue organizations where they can begin recovery and rehabilitation. Friends of the Forlorn Pitbull Rescue, Inc., East Paulding Animal Hospital, New Hope Animal Hospital, Mostly Mutts Animal Rescue, Hiram Animal Hospital, Cedarcrest Animal Hospital, Frank Ortiz of Cedarcrest Animal Hospital, Jessica Rock of the Prosecuting Attorney’s Council of Georgia, and Steve Hammond, Director of Cobb County Animal Control all assisted in the rescue effort.

Paulding County Sheriff Gary Gulledge released a statement about the case:

“In situations like this, a detailed and thorough investigation is required. These cases are complex and involve coordination with multiple local, state, and federal agencies. I am proud of the teamwork shown and grateful these dogs are now safe. This kind of activity has no place in our society.”

Burrell was taken into custody at the home without incident. He was booked into the Paulding County Jail, where he was being held as of Friday without bond.

Investigators say he could face more than 100 additional charges, which have not yet been filed.

The Paulding County Animal Control, the Paulding County Marshal’s Bureau, and the Paulding County District Attorney’s Office assisted the Paulding County Sheriff’s Office with the operation.