Deputies have arrested 41 year old Carl Joseph Mendes of Laton.

He has been booked into the Fresno County Jail on a misdemeanor charge of child neglect.  He will likely face charges of animal cruelty soon.

On Friday, someone passing by the area of W. Mt. Whitney and Chestnut Avenues in Laton reported noticing deceased animals at a family farm.  Deputies arrived and contacted the man living there, Carl Mendes.  A search of the property revealed approximately 300 animals who were malnourished and not properly cared for.  Additionally, dozens of other animals were found deceased, in various stages of decomposition.  The living and deceased animals included:  Pigs, goats, chickens, ducks and dogs.

Members of Fresno Humane Animal Services responded to the scene to investigate.  Their findings will dictate the necessary additional criminal charges Mendes faces.  FHAS is in the process of seizing all animals on the property, prioritizing those in need of the most urgent care.

Deputies learned four teenage children live at the home on the property.  An inspection of the house showed it to be unsanitary and unlivable, with trash and feces scattered throughout.  As a result, deputies arrested him for child endangerment.  Fresno County Child Protective Services is taking measures to separate the children from the property and care for them.

Anyone with additional information about this case is asked to please contact the Sheriff’s Office at (559) 600-3111 or Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-7867, www.valleycrimestoppers.org  You will remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward. Reference case # 24-5014.