Under a contract with the U.S. Marshals, the ASPCA is assisting federal law enforcement agencies with evidence collection and the removal of dogs from three properties associated with dogfighting in the Columbia, South Carolina area. Charleston Animal Society is also supporting the ASPCA in the case.

After search warrants were executed Wednesday morning by the FBI, ASPCA responders discovered more than 30 dogs. The dogs will be transported to an ASPCA temporary shelter at an undisclosed location, where they will receive medical care and behavioral enrichment by ASPCA veterinary and behavior experts. 

“Despite being a felony in all 50 states, dogfighting continues to be a popular underground activity and is more prevalent than many people think,” said Stacy Wolf, Senior Vice President of the ASPCA’s Anti-Cruelty Group. “It’s a priority for the ASPCA to eradicate dogfighting, and we are grateful for the U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI and other law enforcement agencies for taking this issue seriously and working with us to rescue these dogs living in isolation on heavy chains and give them the second chance they deserve.”

The dogs will be cared for at the temporary shelter until custody is determined by the court. The ASPCA will work closely with law enforcement and prosecutors to ensure the best outcome for these animals.

Since 2010, the ASPCA has assisted with approximately 200 dogfighting cases in at least 24 states, and has impacted nearly 5,000 victims of dogfighting through rescue, consultations, and investigations. For more information on the ASPCA’s efforts to tackle dogfighting and what the public can do to help, please visit aspca.org/breakthechain.