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Largest dog-fighting ring busted, 5 states involved
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One of the 350 plus dogs rescued in the largest
dog fighting operation in U.S. history. Photo by AP.
According to the FBI, officials have derailed the largest dog-fighting operation ever seen in U.S. history. The mass canine cruelty involved five states and so far 30 people have been arrested. In addition to arrests, nearly 350 dogs, mostly pit bull terriers, were seized during early-morning raids yesterday, reports the FBI.
The multi-state dog-fighting raid was the result of a yearlong investigation by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies across Missouri, Texas, Illinois, Iowa, and Oklahoma. [Arkansas is rumored to be involved, update to follow]
The Humane Society of Missouri played a subtantial role in the arrests of the dog fighting participants. Consumer Affairs provides additional details on the accused.
(Reader warning, disturbing details on canine cruelty)
According to the indictments, the defendants not only obtained, bred, and trained pit bull dogs for fighting but denied the dogs adequate care such as medical treatment. The abused dogs often suffered injuries from the fights and were “routinely” destroyed.
Euthanasia was no more humane as some of the dogs were killed by electrocution or gunshot. Sometimes this occurred when the dogs performed poorly in the dog fighting ring.
A 2007 federal law makes dog fighting a felony in all 50 states. In this case, those arrested face felony charges that carry maximum sentences of five years in prison and fines of up to $250,000.
What about the dogs and what can the public do?
As noted, the states involved in the dog fighting raid are Arkansas neighbors and citizens may be encouraged to learn more about this tragedy and how they can help ward off animal abuse in their neighborhoods.
The story is sure to sadden and anger many pet owners and animal welfare activists. Though membership in PETA or even the Humane Society is not required to progress and protect the rights of animals in one’s neighborhood.
Simply become informed and be observant about signs of animal abuse and dog fighting. Learn more about pet adoption, if desired, to help facilitate the placement of displaced pets.
One place to start is the local Humane Society but also consider Local Examiners here who focus on dog and pet news and issues.
Many dog lovers on Examiner dedicate themselves to informing the public about such issues as local animal adoption and dog ownership tips.
Those in the affected states may have more to contribute in the upcoming days as well, to include information on local pit bull adoption laws.
Houston Dog Examiner
St. Louis Pets Examiner
Little Rock Pets Examiners
Chicago Pet News Examiner
Animal Advocacy Examiner
Dogs Examiner
National Dog Examiners
