January 15, 2026 – Merced County Sheriff's Office officials report that on January 13, 2026, at 3:45 p.m., Merced County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services Officers responded to a residence in the 5200 block of Utah Street in Merced for possible animal neglect.

Two horses, six dogs, and 12 puppies were found on the property to be malnourished and emaciated. Animal Control Officers seized all animals and they were all provided with medical care by a licensed Veterinarian. Deputies arrested the animal’s owner, Ricardo Fontes, 34, from Merced, who was booked into the Merced County Sheriff’s Office Jail for 8 counts of felony animal cruelty.

This remains an active investigation, and anyone with information is urged to contact the Merced County Sheriff’s Office at 209.385.7445. Callers may remain anonymous.

Source & photos: Merced County Sheriff's Office