Hundreds of dogs saved from fighting to the death as cops find underground ring

Over 300 canines were rescued from a "sadistic" underground dogfighting operation which saw 23 people arrested after a police raid.

In what is believed to be the largest raid of its type in the state's history, authorities interrupted a face-off between two pooches when they raided dogfighting kennels in Richland County, South Carolina, on Saturday, September 24.

The state-wide operation saw dogs fighting or trained to fight in six counties in South Carolina before authorities swooped.

READ MORE: 'Shafted' WizzAir passengers stranded after they're sent in taxi to wrong country

That led agents to serve 23 warrants on Sunday, leading to more than 20 arrests.

People were arrested on state charges of animal cruelty and dogfighting, authorities said. Investigators also seized about 30 guns and $40,000 (£37,150) in cash, prosecutors said.

Some 305 dogs were also rescued and are now being cared for by animal charities. Officials said 275 of them were believed to be part of the dogfighting ring.

US Attorney Adair Boroughs said in a statement the arrests could be the first part of a wider investigation which could lead to federal charges.

"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," Boroughs said.

For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletter by clicking here.

According to the statement, fighting dogs or possessing, training, selling, buying, delivering, receiving or transporting dogs intended for dogfights is a felony punishable by up to five years in federal prison.

The Humane Society, one of the agencies looking after the rescued dogs, said some of the dogs had severe scars, open wounds and cuts.

The agency added some were also unusually thin and chained to trees with no way of getting food or water.

READ NEXT

• Anger as Union Jack set on fire in protest during national day of mourning for the Queen

• Russians protesting Ukraine war 'set fire to government offices with Molotov cocktails'

• Wannabe arsonist sets themselves on fire while trying to torch house with kid inside

• Daredevil pilot killed as plane engulfed in fireball inferno during air race live stream

Source: Read Full Article