TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) -- An Avra Valley couple and their son have pleaded not guilty to felony animal cruelty charges.

Authorities announced the indictments of 67-year-old Billy R. Jones, his 64-year-old wife Wanda L. Jones and their 44-year-old son Robert Allen Jones.

Authorities say more than 850 dogs were found at their home on March 10th.

They each were charged with 37 felony counts of cruel mistreatment of an animal, three felony counts of cruelty to animals and one felony count of fraudulent scheme or practice.

The three were arraigned yesterday in Pima County Superior Court.

The defendants entered their pleas and were released by a judge on their own recognizance.

The Pima County Sheriff's Department says 851 dogs - mostly Chihuahuas - and 36 birds were found to be living under inhumane conditions during a welfare check at the Jones' home.

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Information from: Tucson Citizen, http://www.tucsoncitizen.com

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