34 dogs rescued in suspected dogfighting operation; sheriff’s deputy, 3 others charged

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Humane World for Animals transported the dogs to a safe location. (Credit: Kevin Wolf / AP Images for Humane World for Animals)

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, South Carolina - Authorities in South Carolina rescued 34 dogs from what investigators describe as a suspected dogfighting operation spanning two residential properties.

The rescue marks the latest crackdown on organized animal cruelty in the state.

34 dogs rescued in dogfighting operation

Big picture view:

Agents with the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) executed search and seizure warrants early April 28, uncovering dogs tethered on heavy chains, many in dire physical condition. 

Responders from Humane World for Animals arrived in heavy rain to assist with veterinary triage, documentation and the removal of the animals.

Investigators described a grim scene: many dogs were chained so tightly they could not reach shelter from the weather. Many of the dogs bore visible signs of abuse consistent with dogfighting. One dog, nicknamed "Denali" by responders, had open wounds on her chest and shoulder from apparent dog bites. Another, "Fuji," showed severe scarring, ear injuries and lesions along his neck and back. Several dogs were missing parts of their ears or lips, and some suffered raw, infected skin around their necks.

What they're saying:

"The scars covering their bodies, and the ground worn beneath their chains told a story of a painful, lonely past. The sense of relief and hope was palpable as we freed each dog and carried them to safety," Janell Gregory, the South Carolina state director at Humane World for Animals, said in a statement.

RELATED: Multi-agency federal effort cracking down on abusive dog breeders and dogfighting rings

Humane World for Animals transported the dogs to a safe, confidential location where responders and volunteers are providing much-needed care and treatment. 

Former South Carolina sheriff's deputy, 3 others charged

Dig deeper:

The Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that four individuals have been charged in relation to the matter. One of the suspects arrested in the case was a local sheriff’s deputy, who has since been terminated.

SLED Chief Mark Keel emphasized the seriousness of the case, noting that investigators also discovered illegal drugs and firearms at the properties.

"Dogfighting will not be tolerated in South Carolina," said Keel. "It is especially disheartening that a former law enforcement officer was involved in this crime. This one person’s actions do not reflect the integrity of law enforcement professionals in South Carolina. SLED will continue to work together with our local, state, and federal partners to seek justice in these cases." 

Dogfighting is illegal, felony in US

Why you should care:

According to Humane World for Animals, dogfighting causes severe and often fatal injuries and egregious suffering, including severe bruising, deep puncture wounds and broken bones. Dogs used in these events often die of dehydration, infection, blood loss, exhaustion or shock, hours or even days after the fight.

"The dogs used in organized dogfighting operations are specifically bred and conditioned for fighting, which is only the beginning of a lifecycle of abuse and mistreatment," the organization added.

In South Carolina, dogfighting is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison for fighting dogs or for possessing, training, selling, receiving or transporting dogs intended for use in dogfighting.  

Humane World for Animals has assisted SLED with a number of dogfighting-related investigations recently, rescuing approximately 120 dogs from nine South Carolina properties in under a year.