STAPLETON, Ala.—The Baldwin County Sheriffs Office has begun an investigation for allegations of animal cruelty at a residence off County Road 39 in Stapleton, according to a news release from the sheriff's office.

Deputies got the call from a neighbor who was concerned that three boxer bulldogs haven’t had food or water for about three weeks, the release said.

When deputies arrived at the residence they found one dog inside who was malnourished to the point it could not stand on its own. Two dogs were recovered outside, one with a cable wrapped around both back legs, which caused one leg to begin to decompose, the release said.

The dog found inside was taken to a veterinarian by a concerned family member of the suspect in this case, the release said.

The sheriff's office expects to file charges soon as deputies continue to investigate, the release said.

See the Oct. 23 Spanish Fort Sun and BaldwinCountyNow.com for full coverage.