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Police: Man Abandoned 10 Dogs, Alligator At Home

MUSKEGON (WWJ/AP) - Authorities have cited a 26-year-old man for neglecting animals, including pit bulls and an alligator, which were left at his western Michigan home.

The Muskegon Chronicle reports Friday that Thomas Cryderman was arraigned Thursday in Muskegon County District Court on an abandonment/cruelty of animals charge.

Police said Cryderman also received 47 ordinance violations.

Ten pit bulls or pit bull mixes and a number of exotic animals were removed last month from his home in Muskegon. Six dogs were reported tied up outside the house. Four other dogs were found inside, along with two dead snakes, a dead spider, an iguana and a small alligator.

According to the Muskegon Chronicle, the city allows a homeowner to have up to three dogs. An alligator is not allowed in the city unless it's in a designated zoo.

Police said the animals were apparently left to fend for themselves.

The Associated Press left a message Friday seeking comment from Cryderman's attorney.

(TM and © Copyright 2011 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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