Officials arrest 230 for dog fighting

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Police arrest approximately 230 people from five different states after a year-long investigation in connection with the largest dog fight operation in the U.S.

The FBI played an important role in the multi-agency investigation, and those arrested will face felony charges of a maximum sentence of five years in prison and fines up to $250,000.

In addition, 350 dogs, mostly pit bull terrier, were detained during raids in Missouri, Texas, Illinois, Iowa and Oklahoma. Local humane societies will care for the dogs.

“Forcing a dog to fight to its death is not a sport,” said John Gillies, special agent at the St. Louis office. “There is nothing respectable about encouraging two animals to torture and dismember each other.”

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office was also involved in the investigation. “This was a criminal enterprise,” said one agent. “It involved illegal drugs given to the dogs and also money laundering from wagering that took place at the dog fights.”

Indictments say the defendants obtained, bred and trained dogs for the purpose of fighting. The defendants also denied the dogs the medical treatment needed after becoming injured as a result of the fighting.

The defendants sometimes electrocuted dogs, and one defendant allegedly constructed fighting pits where referees bet on the outcome. Another man was indicted for using a .22 caliber riffle to shoot and kill two dogs that fought, but didn’t meet his expectations.

A 2007 federal law supported by animal welfare organizations has banned dog fighting through out the country, making it a felony in all 50 states.

“I commend the agents and officers who have worked very hard on this investigation,” said U.S. Attorney John M. Bales. “In due time, we look forward to presenting all of the evidence that they have collected in federal court.”

“I also appreciate the significant investigative assistance provided by the Humane Society,” said Bales.