FANNIN CO., TX -- We first told you on Sunday night about dozens of animals, discovered dead or dying on a rural property near Leonard. Now the man authorities say is responsible is in custody, but not before he spoke to our cameras.

Monday night Fannin County Sheriff Kenneth Moore said Gilbert Epperson faces 25 separate charges of animal cruelty, which is a class a misdemeanor. If convicted, Epperson could face up to a year in jail for each charge. His bond has been set at $12,500.

Sunday, the Sheriff's Office was contacted on an animal cruelty complaint of County Road 5075.

At the scene deputies found 23 dead or dying miniature donkeys as well as 2 horses.

The deputies started photographing the scene and contacted Habitat for Horses in Van Alstyne, Texas.

They say 41 of the animals belonged to Epperson, one had to be euthanized at the scene.

The rest of the animals were taken from the property, and Epperson arrested. But before he was taken off in handcuffs, he had this to say to KXII and asked that we not show his face.

"I live out here kind of off the beaten path, and I only know a few people that live in town and that's about it, everybody kind of keeps to themselves. I'm not a true country person, so I maybe didn't fit in too well out here. I apologize for my stupidity," Epperson said.

Fannin County Sheriff Kenneth Moore says animal abuse is a crime his office takes very seriously.

Sheriff Moore says if you have animals but can't afford them the Sheriff's Office can help you find assistance.

But if animals are neglected, Sheriff Moore has a stern warning.

"if you are cruel to your animals, you're going to be arrested," Sheriff Moore said.

All of the charges will be turned over for District Attorney Richard Glaser to review.

If convicted on all charges, Epperson could face up to 25 years in prison and a $100,000 fine.