Monessen, PA -- Monessen Police charged a couple accused of starving two dogs of food and water and neglecting medical care. 

Billy Dupree and Tonia Lawson are facing charges of aggravated animal cruelty, and neglect of animals. 

Monessen Police started investigating in late August after receiving a call about the welfare of two dogs on Chestnut Street. 

Officers noticed both dogs appeared to be very thin through their midsection with ribs and spines protruding. 

Police said they found empty water and food bowls that were dry with no indication that the bowls were recently filled. 

Dupree and Lawson claimed the dogs were not malnourished and were well taken care of, according to police. 

Officers executed a search warrant and seized the two dogs that same day. 

In September, officers received a veterinary report that indicated both dogs suffered from starvation and gained 7 to 8 pounds in a short amount of time. The dogs had wounds related to chronic ear infections and inflamed paws that required medical treatment. 

Arrest warrants were issued for Dupree and Lawson. 

Disclaimer: To the extent that pending criminal matters are discussed, all such charges are merely accusations and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.