PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – After a Central Oregon man was cited for animal neglect in early August, authorities announced they rescued additional dogs in his possession at a second home -- bringing the total number of dogs rescued in this case to 33.

The case began August 3, when Bend Fire & Rescue responded to a reported structure fire at a Tumalo property belonging to 38-year-old David De Persio.

There, authorities found 12 Australian Shepherds living in filthy conditions with “extensive accumulations of animal waste” inside the home.

De Persio was cited for second-degree animal neglect, which was elevated to a Class C felony under Oregon law because more than 11 animals were involved. The dogs were then voluntarily surrendered to the Humane Society of Central Oregon.

On Tuesday, the De

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