The Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigation announced an animal cruelty and dog fighting investigation that led to the seizure of 28 dogs from a residence in Luzerne County.

State police said the dogs, along with numerous pieces of animal fighting paraphernalia, were discovered when an animal cruelty officer assisted with a search warrant at a home in West Hazleton Borough.

While on scene, investigators observed multiple signs of animal fighting.

A second search warrant was obtained, leading to the discovery of 19 crated dogs inside the home and eight more crated in a backyard shed.

Another dog was found running loose on the property and was captured. The dogs were removed with the assistance of Griffin Pond Animal Shelter and the Luzerne County Animal Response Team.

Griffin Pond initially cared for the animals before they were placed under the care of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Police said the dogs must undergo forensic veterinary evaluations, general veterinary care and behavioral analysis.

The suspect, who was not identified, was booked into Luzerne County Jail on unrelated criminal charges. The investigation is ongoing.