(WFLA/CNN) - A man was arrested after a disturbing case of animal neglect in Polk County, Florida.
The man was arrested after authorities found several dogs under his care severely malnourished.
They're known as man's best friend, but police say the six dogs found at this Lakeland home weren't treated that way.
"This is one of the worst in a long time that we've had," said Gary Gross.
Police say Genar Smith is behind the horrific case of animal cruelty.
After receiving a tip, police found the dogs behind his home on 12th Street West.
There, officers found two dogs in a cage eating the remains of a third dog.
"He thought the dog died of parvo. And then the other two dogs continued to feed off of that deceased dog," said Gross.
Police say another dog still alive had part of its tail eaten off.
It was also found that Smith is a convicted felon with a long rap sheet.
He allegedly told police he's the primary caretaker of the animals.
He claims that he gives them food and water every day, but he had never taken the dogs to a veterinarian.
Animal control officers say the dog's rib cages and hip bones are clearly visible from severe starvation.
"All the dogs that the officers saw appeared to be starving. Animal control showed up, also confirmed that as well," said Gross.
Smith is charged with felony cruelty to an animal.
Five surviving dogs were transported to animal control, which tested them for parvo.
None of the dogs had the virus.
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