Candice Riley, 50, of Hudson, was arrested on July 22 for allegedly forcing a female Cane Corso to give birth in deplorable living conditions. Courtesy photo/Hudson Police Department

HUDSON — Candice Riley, 50, of Hudson, was taken into custody on July 22 for allegedly forcing a female Cane Corso to give birth in deplorable living conditions.

According to the Hudson Police Department, on May 31, police responded to reports of dogs barking at Riley’s home. Riley was not home during the initial police response. The mother and seven puppies were reportedly found living in a detached garage littered with trash, exposed electrical wires, batteries, deteriorating drywall and an open container of gasoline. The puppies were also reportedly found in several soiled blankets.

Further investigation revealed that the mother had given birth to 10 puppies; however, three of them were no longer alive.

All the dogs were immediately removed from the property.

Riley has been charged with eight counts of cruelty to animals.

She was released on personal recognizance bail and is scheduled to be arraigned in Nashua District Court on July 28.

Under state law, if convicted, she could face up to eight years in prison and up to $10,000 in fines.