ALVARADO, Texas — The Johnson County Sheriff's Office is investigating an alleged animal cruelty case after deputies discovered three dogs had been left inside a non-climate-controlled storage unit for extended periods of time.
Deputies responded on February 17, 2026, to Mouser Self-Storage, located at 4592 J.D. Mouser Parkway, Unit 2108S, after receiving a report that dogs had been left unattended inside a unit. The reporting party told deputies the units are not climate controlled.
After reviewing surveillance footage provided by the facility, deputies observed Gustavo Ramos entering the storage facility on February 13 around 1 p.m. and placing three dogs inside Unit #2108S. Video showed Ramos leaving approximately 17 minutes later, with the dogs remaining inside the locked unit.
Investigators determined Ramos returned to the facility on February 15 shortly after 1 a.m., removed the dogs, then returned a short time later and placed them back inside the unit before leaving again. Based on the time spent inside the unit during those visits, deputies believe the dogs were being kept in kennels.
Authorities say confining dogs in a non-climate-controlled storage unit and leaving them unattended for more than 48 hours may constitute unreasonable confinement and failure to provide necessary food, water, and care under Texas law. Officials noted that animals kept in those conditions are unable to properly regulate body temperature or access essential resources, posing a serious risk to their health and safety.
The surveillance footage indicates what investigators describe as a potential ongoing pattern of conduct, raising concerns of possible violations of Texas Penal Code § 42.092, which addresses cruelty to non-livestock animals.
Ramos was arrested and charged with three counts of Cruelty to Non-Livestock Animals. He is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
The investigation remains active.
The Sheriff’s Office expressed appreciation to the Humane Society of North Texas for assisting with housing the animals pending a hearing.
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Lt. Keven George with the Johnson County Sheriff's Office. Animal cruelty cases can also be reported through Johnson County Crime Stoppers for those wishing to remain anonymous.
