CALDWELL COUNTY, N.C. -- Officers conducting a drug investigation found dozens of malnourished pit bulls chained in a Caldwell County field along with a number of dead dogs and puppies early Wednesday.

Investigators said they had gone to a home on Oran Yount Lane in the Dudley Shoals community in search of drugs, but they had no idea they would find dogs in such terrible condition.

Officers said they found 36 dogs on the small piece of property owned by Rockey Sigmon, 31, and Jennifer Sigmon, 28, and 44 more in a nearby field. They called in Animal Control for help.

Authorities said they also found more than 100 grams of cocaine and more than 350 grams of marijuana at the home.

The Sigmons are each charged with felony trafficking cocaine, felony possession with intent to sell and deliver marijuana and felony maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for the sale of a controlled substance. They are being held at the Caldwell County jail under $250,000 bond each.

Investigators said they will also likely file animal cruelty charges.

Animal Control officers said several of the dogs have broken bones, scratches and bite wounds. They said evidence collected from the scene -- such as video tapes, a breeding rack and strength-training tools -- along with the dogs’ injuries indicate the animals were likely used for fighting.

Authorities said because of their aggression toward other animals, most of the dogs will likely be put down.

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