305 Dogs Rescued, 21 Arrested In South Carolina Dogfighting Ring
20 people were arrested in what law enforcement is calling the largest dogfighting ring ever in the state of South Carolina. 305 dogs were rescued in the joint operation.
According to WLTX-TV, the operation happened over the weekend in Columbia and several surrounding counties.
“To force dogs to fight, often to the death, for the enjoyment of others is not only a federal crime, it is also cruel, sadistic, and can create a haven for other illicit activities involving drugs and firearms,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs. “This joint operation, which has been months in the making, makes clear that dogfighting operations will find no refuge here in South Carolina. I especially want to thank our state and federal partners, the Governor’s Office, and our community partners for their leadership and work on this issue.”
A dogfighting match in Richland County on Saturday led officers to execute search warrants at properties in Richland, York, Orangeburg, Clarendon, Lee, and Sumter counties. The team of more than 60 state and federal officers were part of the rescue.
30 firearms and $40,000 in cash were seized by law enforcement.
The Humane Society of the United States and Bark Nation are assisting with care and handling of the animals.
Related: Pet Products
