At the request of the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), the ASPCA assisted with the removal of 13 dogs from a property in Darlington, South Carolina. We also assisted in the operational planning and removal, evidence collection, legal and investigative assistance, forensic exams and medical and behavioral care of the animals. These animals, including puppies, were found in poor condition and have been relocated to an ASPCA emergency shelter for medical and behavioral evaluations as well as ongoing care and enrichment.

“The ASPCA’s expertise and resources uniquely position us to work alongside our law enforcement partners nationwide to tackle dogfighting, bring justice to its victims and provide rescued animals with specialized medical and behavioral treatment that ends their suffering and gives them the greatest chance of moving on to new, loving homes,” said Teresa Ladner, Senior Director of Investigations for the ASPCA. “Dogfighting is a brutal form of animal cruelty in which dogs are exploited and forced to fight one another for the entertainment and profit of spectators, and we are grateful to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division for pursuing this case, which gets us one step closer to eliminating dogfighting nationwide, once and for all.”

SLED has charged the defendants with Animal Fighting or Baiting, Criminal Conspiracy and Ill Treatment of Animals.

“Dogfighting will not be tolerated in South Carolina,” said SLED Chief Mark Keel. “It is cruel and undermines the safety of our communities. Law abiding citizens do not find amusement or profit in the ill treatment of animals. SLED is committed to working together with our local, state and federal partners to combat dogfighting.”