An Andalusia man has been charged with cruelty to animals after five dead animals and nearly 20 others were found neglected in Red Level Tuesday.

Ronnie L. Denney, 43, faces the misdemeanor charge after the owner of the property Denney was leasing in Red Level found the animals and reported Denney to the authorities.

“Denney had been running a so-called non-profit organization called SAFE or Save Animals from Euthanasia on (State) Hwy. 55,” Covington County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Wesley Snodgrass said. “He had since moved his organization from 55 South to Crowell Lane in Red Level.

“A private citizen happened upon what appeared to be the remains of a dead dog on the property and filed charges against him for the underfed and wounded animals,” he said.

Reports indicate there were four dead dogs and one dead cat found when law enforcement arrived, as well as more than 20 other dogs.

Additionally, it appeared the animals had died as a result of starvation and neglect.

A person commits the crime of cruelty to animals if, he or she intentionally or recklessly subjects any animal to cruel mistreatment; or subjects any animal in his custody to cruel neglect; or kills or injures, without good cause, any animal belonging to another.

Denney was released on a $1,000 bond, and if convicted, could face a fine of up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment up to 6 months.