Man with 230+ animals living in "deplorable conditions" among those arrested in Texas animal cruelty roundup

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas -- An arrest roundup was held early Saturday morning around Harris County, targeting animal abusers. Operation "Don't Be Cruel" was carried out by the Precinct One Constable's Office animal cruelty unit and the Houston SPCA.

In a press conference, Constable Alan Rosen explained that more than two dozen two deputy teams went out at 5 a.m., arresting 13 individuals and clearing 25 warrants.

One of the cases involved the alleged mistreatment of a large number of animals under one roof.

"230-plus animals from mice to turtles to bearded dragons, all living in deplorable conditions," said Constable Alan Rosen.

Edmond Megdal was arrested Saturday morning, but a health condition led him to need medical attention and he was transported to an area hospital. His booking will be completed at a later date.

The animals in each of the cases were seized in recent months by cruelty investigators and awarded to the custody of the Houston SPCA.

In another case, emaciated dogs were found at a home from which the owner had moved. The dogs were left behind.

In another, a man was said to have been recorded throwing his dog to the ground. X-rays showed it had a broken leg, and another leg with a fracture. Despite the video, Rosen said the owner denied hurting the dog.

"We want people who hurt animals to know that you're not going to get away with it," Rosen said at the press conference. "We're going to come out and we're going to arrest you. Don't think you're going to get away with it."