It’s been about five years since dozens of dogs were rescued from a dogfighting ring led by Michael Davis, according to police.

“It definitely took a toll on the staff not only caring for the animals but certainly seeing the animals in those conditions,” said Lauren Bluestone, director of Metro Animal Care and Control.

Around 30 dogs were removed from the property in April 2014.

“There was dog fighting,” Davis said. “There was dog fighting paraphernalia.”

Police say some animals were found tied down with heavy chains.

“Dogs that had different stages of injuries,” Bluestone said.

Davis initially faced 27 counts of felony animal fighting. Those charges were dismissed last week after he pleaded guilty to three misdemeanor charges of animal abuse.

Bluestone says many are disappointed.

“The community rallied during this time frame that are probably upset with that outcome,” she said.

Animal control says the agency spent about $15,000 in the first ten days of the investigation alone.

Bluestone says officers did all they could do.

“We do have to trust that other divisions make the best choices for the welfare of the animals and for the welfare of the community,” the director said.