The Department of Justice (DOJ) rescued over 300 dogs in the largest bust of a dogfighting operation in South Carolina history. The department announced that they had successfully dismantled the largest dogfighting operation in the state’s history and had rescued 305 dogs.

Source: News 19 WLTX/YouTube

The bust came from a joint effort of over 60 federal and state officers thanks to 23 search warrants on locations in various counties in the state. Along with the rescue of the over 300 dogs, the DOG also seized $40,000 in cash, 30 firearms, and “various evidence related to dogfighting”. More than 20 people were arrested on charges “relating to animal cruelty and dogfighting,” according to a press release. The dogs had scars, wounds, and lacerations. The location from which they were rescued was in horrible condition, and the animals had no food or water.

275 of the dogs that were rescued were believed to be used in dogfighting. The dogs were given to the Humane Society of the United States and Bark Nation, where they will be brought back to health and will eventually find loving forever homes.

“The depravity involved in carrying out a dogfighting conspiracy is unimaginable to most people, and those involved in such a crime must be rooted out and punished,” Gov. Henry McMaster said in a statement. “On behalf of all South Carolinians, I would like to thank the dedicated state and federal law enforcement officers who uncovered and disrupted this unspeakable cruelty. Our state is safer because of their hard work on this investigation.”

“Even after the many years we have worked to protect dogs from the calculated brutality that dogfighting perpetuates, our responders are still struck by the resilience of these dogs who have suffered unthinkable cruelty,” Kitty Block, president and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States, said. “We are grateful to the federal and state officials for intervening on behalf of these dogs and for the opportunity to work together to get them the care they deserve.”

Animal abuse is more prevalent than many may think. According to PetPedia, every 60 seconds, an animal suffers from abuse, with more than 65 percent being dogs. More than 10 million animals die from abuse every year in the US alone, not including the livestock bred for consumption, who also suffer immense abuse. Animal abuse happens everywhere and is a serious issue. We need more laws to protect animals and hold abusers accountable. Sign this petition to demand all states make all animal abuse a felony now!

Also, sign this petition asking that they step up and ban posts that can contribute to dogfighting, such as selling dogs or giving them away for free!

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• Florida Man Faces Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Dogfighting Offenses
• Cat Rescued After Escaping from Dogfighting Ring

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