CHESTER – The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division in the rescue of 47 dogs and puppies from three properties suspected of dog fighting in Chester and Lancaster counties this week. The Chester County Sheriff’s Office, Chester County Animal Control and Lancaster County Sheriff’s Office, and the Humane World for Animals also assisted with the rescue operation.
Authorities served search and seizure warrants simultaneously on three properties early in the morning on Nov. 5. On each property, rescuers were greeted by a scene of scarred, injured and underweight dogs with wagging tails, most of whom were on heavy chains with plastic barrels or makeshift structures as their only source of meager shelter, according to officials.
Veterinarians noted that multiple dogs on each property were suffering from infected puncture wounds consistent with dogfighting. Most of the dogs were found to be severely underweight and infested with fleas, and many suffering from painful, severe dental disease, officials said. Dogfighting paraphernalia was identified on the properties, including treadmills and what appeared to be a broken-down fighting pit.
A severely underweight mother dog and three nursing puppies were found in a filthy, feces-caked hutch. While she initially appeared cautious, she quickly warmed up to her rescuers.
Nearby, responders noted a dog limping on his chain. Veterinarians identified recent puncture wounds from an apparent dog bite on his swollen leg, which will require x-rays. Despite his pain, he was friendly and eager for attention.
“It’s haunting to see so many dogs—injured, covered in scars and clearly in need of veterinary attention—just stuck on the end of a heavy chain. They looked hurt and alone,” said Janell Gregory, South Carolina state director, Humane World for Animals. “It’s rewarding to see them start to wiggle and give kisses as we got them to safety. We are deeply grateful to SLED for initiating this rescue operation.”
“SLED’s Dogfighting Unit continues to aggressively pursue anyone who is involved in this illegal activity in South Carolina,” said SLED Chief Mark Keel. “This most recent operation resulted in the rescue of 47 dogs that were taken out of a cruel and abusive environment along with the seizure of firearms and drugs, all of which only benefited the criminals who were arrested today.”
“In the course of answering calls for service and investigating cases, we often come across dogs that appear to have been maltreated and evidence that they have been fought,” said Lancaster County Sheriff Barry Faile. “Dogfighting cases are complex, often involve other crimes like drug and gun law violations, and routinely cross jurisdictional lines.
“SLED prioritizes these cases and has the resources to thoroughly investigate them. What we found this week is deeply disturbing but through the efforts of these partnerships, we have taken immediate action that dismantled a horrific animal abuse operation,” said Chester County Sheriff Max Dorsey. “Animal cruelty has no place in our community and it will not be tolerated.”