PATRICK COUNTY, Va. (rbs news now) — A Patrick Springs man is being held without bond following an animal cruelty investigation that uncovered dozens of dogs living in extreme conditions, according to Patrick County Sheriff Dan Smith.

Roy Melvin Davis Jr., 69, of 1889 South County Line Road, was arrested Thursday by Patrick County deputies.

The investigation began Tuesday afternoon when deputies executed a search warrant at Davis’ home while investigating an unrelated report of brandishing a firearm.

Deputies were searching for a revolver that Davis allegedly used to threaten another person during an incident reported Monday, the sheriff’s office said.

When deputies entered the home, they discovered numerous dogs stacked in cages throughout the residence.

“The dogs were living in cages with cock roaches, maggots and packed feces more than 6 inches thick in most cases,” Smith said in a Friday social media post.

He added that deputies “had to wear gas mask respirators and personal protective gear to remove the dogs.”

The animals were taken to the Patrick County Animal Shelter, where they were examined by a veterinarian.

Two of the dogs were euthanized due to their poor physical condition, authorities said.

The remaining animals are receiving care, and several have already been claimed for adoption.

Angels of Assisi, a Roanoke-based animal rescue organization, is assuming responsibility for the continued care of the dogs, according to the sheriff’s office.

Davis is charged with two counts of felony animal cruelty, 13 counts of misdemeanor animal cruelty, brandishing a firearm and obstruction of justice in connection with the separate firearm investigation.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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