Robert Brunette was found guilty of nine counts of animal neglect and cruelty charges after a weeklong trial, Santa Cruz County Animal Services Authority General Manager Henry Brzezinksi said Friday.
The Boulder Creek man could face up to four years in prison.
The case began in July 2008 when about 50 puppies and dogs were seized from Brunette after they were found in environmentally and physically "deplorable" conditions, Brzezinksi said.
"Mr. Brunette's conviction is justice for the animals that have suffered by his negligence," he said.
"This verdict indicates that animal abuse and neglect will not be tolerated in Santa Cruz County," Field Services Manager Todd Stosuy said.
Brunette is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 22.
