NJ couple faces hundreds of charges over 276 dogs in home

HOWELL, N.J. (AP) -- A New Jersey couple faces over 550 counts of animal cruelty after 276 dogs were found in their bi-level home.

The Monmouth County Prosecutor's Office says Charlene and Joseph Handrik have been charged with 276 counts of animal cruelty for providing inhumane living conditions. They also face 276 counts of animal cruelty for failing to get veterinary care. 

They could face fines and penalties if found guilty on all counts.

Prosecutors say despite the deplorable conditions they lived in, the dogs were in relatively good health.

They were discovered June 3 after an animal control officer was called to find a dog that had gotten loose.

All are being cared for at shelters.

Officials say as many as 25 of them may be pregnant, which could yield about 100 more dogs.