An accused Alabama dogfighter has agreed to relinquish ownership of 68 dogs seized by police to an animal shelter.

Lamarcus Dewane Ricks, 38, was charged last month with 17 counts of dogfighting and 68 counts of cruelty to animals, second degree.

On Wednesday, WHNT-TV reported Ricks officially relinquished ownership of the dogs during a hearing.

The move now allows the Florence-Lauderdale Animal Shelter to find foster homes or permanent homes for the animals.