ETX Sheriff Arrests 45 in Alleged Dogfighting Ring

Operation Pitbull

According to a news release from the Newton Co. Sheriff’s Office on Nov. 22, Sheriff Colton Havard and deputies shutdown what they allege is a dogfighting ring during a raid in the East Texas community of Call, resulting in 45 arrests during an event.

According to the sheriff, “Operation Pitbull” came after months of complaints and tips from local residents.  

What to Know

• $73,000 in cash was seized
• Firearms, narcotics, and roughly 40 vehicles were confiscated
• Two dogs were rescued mid-fight and treated at a local veterinary clinic
• Sheriff Havard called it “one of the most disturbing crimes” he has ever witnessed and said that all those involved should be ashamed.  

The Scope of the Problem

Although it is a felony offense in all 50 states, dogfighting still occurs in many areas around the country.

While the exact number of illegal dogfighting rings is unknown, due to the underground nature of the violent practice, animal welfare organizations such as the ASPCA say the estimated number is in the tens of thousands.

Motivations for involvement range from gambling profits – sometimes hundreds of thousands of dollars per fight – to the blood-sport entertainment of watching animals attack one another.

Common places for dogfighting locations include abandoned houses, vacant garages and warehouses, and other secluded and otherwise unused private or public property.

Recognizing and Reporting

The Humane Society of the United States says the following warning signs could indicate potential dogfighting:

• pit bulls on heavy chains or locked in secluded areas such as a basement
• scarred, abused, or neglected dogs (especially pit bulls)
• springpoles – devices used to condition the dogs for fighting by building up jaw and neck muscles
• excessive amounts of steroids and other medications
• treadmills with a chain or harness attached
• “fighting pits” with scratch marks on the ground or pavement.

While none of these signs are proof of dogfighting, suspected abuse or neglect should always be reported. If you see multiple of these signs, it may indicate a larger, more organized practice of animal cruelty is occurring.  

If you suspect dogfighting, call 911 or contact your local animal control agency. Reporting is crucial for cases like this – and all animals deserve to be protected.