Following an anonymous tip, a dog-fighting ring was uncovered on Embury Avenue in Neptune, New Jersey. Local law enforcement in conjunction with Monmouth County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) carried out a raid, saving several dogs from this cruel operation.
SPCA rescues dogs from alleged dog-fighting ring
Upon arriving at the scene, officers of the Monmouth County SPCA Humane Law Enforcement and Neptune Township Police traced a bloody trail to a locked garage. They could hear distressed barking resonating from inside. On removing the locks, officers discovered six dogs kept in wooden crates filled with feces and urine. They were in a terrible state, bearing scabs, scars, and puncture wounds. This was an alarming sign of their suspected use in the dog-fighting ring.
Monmouth SPCA, in their official statement, surmised that some of the dogs were being used as “bait dogs.” Not only that, the joint investigative team — which also included the Monmouth County Forensics Unit — uncovered dog treadmills, syringes, IV bags, and suspected animal steroids among other items indicative of a professional dog-fighting ring operation.
Eight dogs were seized in total — six from the garage and two found outside chained to dog houses. As the raid continued, the uncooperative residents of the property faced legal repercussions. Moreover, one person was arrested for disorderly conduct on site — as per TAPinto.net.
Ross Licitra, Executive Director of MCSPCA, assured that the animals are now safe and free from fear and pain. In addition, they are getting proper care from their staff. “With the power governed by the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, we will be sure that the cruel offenders of this case will be charged to the highest extent of the law to reinforce that we do not tolerate animal cruelty in our community,” said Licitra.
MCSPCA is now soliciting public donations to provide necessary medical care for the dogs in their recovery. The organization also looks forward to rehabilitating and finding the dogs new loving homes.
