Authorities in central Alabama broke up a suspected dog fighting and breeding operation Friday morning where emaciated dogs were kept under cruel conditions.

The operation near Plantersville investigated by the Autauga County Sheriff’s Office included dogs attached by large chains to iron bars in the ground; many of the more than 30 canines at the operation were extremely thin and appeared to have no access to food or water, the Montgomery Advertiser reported.

“It’s hard to see dogs in these conditions,” Autauga County Sheriff Mark Harrell told the Advertiser. “It’s not going to be tolerated in Autauga County.”

One person was taken into custody; charges against them are pending.

The investigation remained ongoing, and it is possible more people will be charged in connection with the operation.

The dogs, mainly pit bulls or pit bull mixes, had plastic barrels for shelter.

Animal bones, which authorities suspect were bones belonging to dogs, were found on the property off Autauga County Road 22.

Chickens and rabbits were also housed in cages. Authorities believed the animals were used to prepare the dogs to fight each other.

Two by Two Rescue of Helena took possession of the rescued dogs. The organization reached out to shelters and veterinarians to connect the dogs with caretakers and medical treatment if needed.