Puerto Rico police file charges after woman, 85, found malnourished in house with 15 dogs

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – Puerto Rico police arrested a man Saturday on charges of mistreating an 85-year-old woman for more than a year after officers said they found her in her home in deplorable conditions with 15 dogs.

Authorities also accused 46-year-old Gioverti Jesus Garcia Cabello of illegally obtaining Social Security checks and public housing vouchers that belonged to Adela Mendoza Colon.

Police officer Angel Rodriguez told The Associated Press that Garcia befriended the woman because she frequented a restaurant where he worked. He alleged Garcia took over her affairs, seized her car and house keys and locked her in her home for days at a time.

Rodriguez said the woman was hospitalized for malnutrition and the investigation continues.

It wasn't clear if Garcia had a lawyer. He was being held on $166,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 21.