CORONA – (INT) – A 72-year-old suspected bank robber may have been using some of his stolen loot to buy food for 35 dogs that had taken over his home.

Police revealed the bizarre circumstances after entering the home of Robert Flores in search of evidence linking him to the June 20th robbery of the Pacific Western Bank. Instead, what they found was an extreme case of animal abuse.

Many of the dogs and seven puppies were emaciated and diseased. Animal wastes covered the floor of the home which was strewn with furniture destroyed down to the frames. One dog with open wounds was euthanized. All were taken to the Corona Animal Shelter.

“This is by far the worst call I’ve been to. I have never witnessed this level of (animal) neglect,” said Animal Control Officer Bill Sellers.

Flores is facing animal neglect and bank robbery charges. He said he stays in the garage and the dogs in the house.

Story Date: July 31, 2017