A Summerville man was arrested last week after deputies responding to a house fire discovered three severely neglected dogs on the property. The incident happened on November 23rd on Railroad Circle, where emergency crews had been called to a structure fire.

When deputies arrived, they noticed a dog in the corner of the property that appeared extremely emaciated. As they searched the area, they found two more dogs—one in even worse condition. Deputies reported that all three animals had visible ribs, spine, and hip bones showing. One dog was unable to walk and had to be carried out for safety. The dogs shared a filthy area filled with trash and their own feces.

The owner of the animals, 29-year-old Johnathan Keith Blackmon, told deputies the dogs belonged to him. Animal Control was notified and responded to take custody of all three animals. Deputies stated the dogs were provided food and water immediately, as they appeared to be starving.

Blackmon was arrested at the scene and transported to the Chattooga County Jail. He is charged with aggravated cruelty to animals.