Rodrigo P. Moreira, 60, of Warwick, faces one count for each dog under Rhode Island's law prohibiting overwork, mistreatment or failure to feed animals, the chief said in an update issued shortly before 6 p.m. Wednesday.

The dogs were being transported to the Warwick Animal Shelter for evaluation, the chief said. A formal news release with additional information was expected later.

Police did not immediately disclose the conditions inside the home or how the investigation began. The chief's update provided no further details on the dogs' health or the circumstances that led officers to the residence.

The case is among the larger animal-hoarding or neglect seizures in Warwick in recent memory, and it puts a spotlight on the city's animal shelter, which will now be responsible for assessing and caring for two dozen dogs at once. Shelter capacity and veterinary resources could be tested as the evaluation proceeds.

Rhode Island law treats animal mistreatment as a criminal offense, and each count can carry penalties including fines and potential jail time. The 25 separate counts suggest prosecutors intend to treat each animal as a distinct victim.

Moreira's age and address were released by police, but no booking photo or court date was immediately available. It was not clear Wednesday whether he had retained an attorney.

Neighbors on the residential street, located in a densely settled section of Warwick, said they were unaware of the number of animals inside the home until police arrived. Police vehicles and an animal control transport were visible at the scene into the evening.

The Warwick Animal Shelter, which handles stray and seized animals for the city, did not immediately respond to questions about the dogs' condition or how the public could help. Residents interested in assisting are encouraged to contact the shelter directly about donation and foster needs.

Police said the formal release would provide additional information, and this story will be updated as details become available.