ASPCA Rescues More than 150 Dogs from Suspected Dogfighting Operation in South Carolina

At the request of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the ASPCA is assisting with a suspected dogfighting case involving more than 150 dogs, including puppies, removed from multiple locations across Dillon and Marion Counties. The ASPCA is supporting the transport of the animals to an ASPCA facility where they will receive medical and behavioral evaluations, care, and enrichment. The ASPCA is also assisting with evidence collection, legal and investigative assistance, and forensic exams. The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office will prosecute these matters.

Law enforcement discovered dogfighting paraphernalia across the locations, including treadmills, fighting pits and medications. Some dogs were also observed to be severely underweight and had limited or no access to food or clean water. Many were found with untreated injuries and scarring consistent with dogfighting.

“Coordinating the simultaneous investigation and seizure of more than 150 dogs across 10 separate properties is an enormous undertaking, and the ASPCA is grateful to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division for pursuing this case and seeking justice for these dogs, who are now receiving critical care,” said Matt Bershadker, ASPCA president & CEO. “As victims of suspected dogfighting, these dogs have suffered the worst kind of human betrayal, and despite being a felony in all 50 states, dogfighting persists and the suffering it causes is far-reaching. We are committed to working alongside law enforcement to bring this horrific form of animal cruelty to an end in South Carolina and across the country.”

Over the past year, the ASPCA has assisted SLED with the execution of over 15 dogfighting-related search warrants. In recognition of National Dogfighting Awareness Day on April 8, the ASPCA urges the public to educate themselves on how to spot signs of dogfighting and join efforts to stop the suffering.