Dale County authorities are in the process of finding foster homes for three horses. They are the focus of an animal abuse case.

One horse has a serious infection, and authorities say all three show severe signs of starvation an active warrant has been issued for the owner:

A concerned neighbor reportedly told authorities about the condition of the animals.

They are located on a field in Newton. Once alerted, Dale County Sheriff's Department investigators determined that the horses were being neglected.

An arrest warrant is expected to be served Tuesday on Michael Kovach.

The 57-year-old owns the animals, and is reportedly out-of-town at this time he'll face three-counts of animal cruelty:

At this time, Dale/Geneva County District Attorney Kirke Adams says a vet is determining the health of several other horses found on the property.

Sheriff's department authorities are asking that Mr. Kovach surrender to them as soon as possible.

Adams says his office takes very seriously any animal abuse cases taking place in his jurisdiction.