MARLIN, Texas — Editor's Note: The attached video aired in February.
In January, a Facebook post about the conditions and treatment of dogs at the Marlin Animal Control Center sparked major outrage from residents and protesters coming to the city from as far away as Austin to shed light on the alleged mistreatment.
The photos showed graphic and disturbing images of the dogs that appeared to be malnourished and living in their own feces, with one presumably laying in its own bed dead.
In the days and weeks following the situation coming to light, protesters began to fight for change and accountability, with a Change.org petition reaching nearly 500 signatures within just a few weeks.
As of Tuesday, that Change.org petition has reached over 3,000 signatures and an investigation has been confirmed by a Texas Department of Public Safety representative to 6 News into what took place at the animal center.
"The Texas Rangers are currently investigating alleged violations involving the Marlin Animal Control Facilities," the statement reads. "The investigation is active and ongoing. Currently, no further information is available."
The news comes as a major victory for groups that have been working hard to get the attention of state officials and investigative agencies, who say that despite the major victory, their fight is not over.