RICARDO FONTES arrested after multiple emaciated animals were found on his property in Merced County

- California, USA -

The Merced County Sheriff's Office announced the arrest of 34-year-old RICARDO FONTES (pictured), of Merced.

On the afternoon of Tuesday, January 13, 2026, Merced County Sheriff’s Office Animal Services Officers responded to FONTES’ residence in the 5200 block of Utah Street in Merced for possible animal neglect.

According to the press release by the sheriff's office, on the property Officers found two horses, six dogs, and twelve puppies who were “malnourished and emaciated.”

Officers removed all of the animals who were examined by a veterinarian and subsequently provided with medical care.

Deputies arrested FONTES, the animals’ guardian, and booked him into the Merced County Sheriff’s Office Jail. FONTES was charged with eight felony counts of animal cruelty.

The sheriff’s office tells me that no animals were found deceased on the property and added: “The animals that were rescued are all doing okay however the two horses were sent to a local vet and are still being provided care. None of the animals involved have been euthanized.”

The investigation remains active and anyone with information about the case is asked to contact the Merced County Sheriff’s Office at (209) - 385 - 7445. Thank you!

###

Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from the news release by the Merced County Sheriff’s Office. Please note that details may be removed or new information added should updates become available.

In the case of charges being dropped, dismissed, or the case being purged, this article will be rectified accordingly, if official documentation is provided to Voice For Us.

Pictures via the Merced County Sheriff's Office

For more animal cruelty stories, please click here. Thank you!