A search warrant for Walker County, Ala residence has left two men in custody, 115 dogs starting a new life, and a long investigation underway.

Walker County deputies executed an animal cruelty search warrant at a house in the Lupton/Prospect community of the county. During the search, deputies tracked the suspect to a location near the bowling alley in Jasper. The suspect, identified as 53-year-old Orville Brian Nailer, was taken into custody and the 11 dogs in his vehicle were picked up by the Jasper Animal Shelter.  Nailer was arrested for 28 counts of Animal Cruelty in the 2nd degree.  Nailer also had a warrant for failing to appear in court on a Driving while Suspended ticket.   

The search at the house continued with another person being taken into custody. That person was identified as Michael Poole.

While at the house, 115 dogs were found and ‘removed from a horrid situation, given medical treatment, and a ride to a new life,’ the sheriff’s office said.

The 115-number doesn’t include those found already deceased, or the ones who were buried in the backyard at some point.

Some 70+ dogs were captured outside, and another 30+ were found inside the residence. The dogs rescued today were malnourished, neglected, and most were very frail.

“The investigation continues to move forward, and when final charges are announced, we will update you,” the office said. “For adoption information, please contact the Greater Birmingham Humane Society.”

The search team consisted of Walker County Sheriff’s deputies, Greater Birmingham Humane Society, Jasper Animal Shelter, Walker County EMA, Walker County Humane Society, and Saragossa Fire Department.