Over 120 Dogs Rescued From Suspected Dogfighting Ring In New Jersey

Over 120 dogs rescued, and eight people were charged in connection to a suspected dogfighting network that operated throughout multiple properties in southern New Jersey, authorities said,The rescue operation last week resulted from an investigation of more than two years. 

Details Of The Dogs Rescued Mission.

A result of an intensive investigation by the Division of Criminal Justice, the New Jersey State Police, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, culminated in the execution of search and seizure warrants on Wednesday in Cumberland and Atlantic counties related to an alleged dog fighting operation in Cumberland County, Attorney General Matthew Platkin announced Friday.

Over 120 dogs, bred and trained to fight, were rescued from multiple properties, Attorney General Platkin confirmed. The dogs’ living conditions were dire, with many found in barren pens and cages within various buildings. Others were discovered shivering in the cold rain, confined in outdoor pens, or chained with minimal protection from the elements.

Despite the challenging circumstances, law enforcement officials and animal welfare workers diligently carried out a rescue dog operation throughout the day, even amidst pouring rain. Attorney General Platkin expressed gratitude, stating, “We cannot thank the individuals involved in this operation enough. They’re true heroes.”

Dogs and puppies were found throughout multiple buildings living in “barren pens and cages,” the Humane Society of the United States reported in a news release. Some dogs bore signs of significant scarring and untreated wounds, while several were emaciated, including pregnant and nursing mothers.

“We know that on multiple instances dogs were strapped to an ATV and forced to run at speeds as high as 14 miles an hour, often for long periods of time,” Platkin revealed at a news conference on Friday. “In at least one instance, even exceeding an hour.”

Despite the harsh conditions, many dogs greeted responders with wagging tails and kisses, while others hunched over and peered reluctantly at the responders, according to the Humane Society. Janette Reever, animal crimes investigations program manager for the Humane Society of the United States, remarked, “What’s striking is the level of suffering involved in dogfighting contrasted with how sweet and eager for affection these dogs are. Though they were shivering in the cold rain, these dogs still left their meager shelters to greet us.”

The dog rescue operation revealed the extent of suffering endured by dogs in dog fighting rings. Many dogs had untreated wounds, visible scarring, and were emaciated, including pregnant and nursing mothers. Despite their health challenges and alleged involvement in dogfights, many of the canines displayed friendliness and affection towards their rescuers.

Attorney General Platkin emphasized the callousness and brutality of profiting from dogfighting, describing it as cruel and inhumane. He stated, “These animals are born into lives of abuse, suffering, and violence, culminating with hours-long fights and frequently these dogs’ slow and painful deaths. The alleged illegal activities uncovered by this investigation will not go unpunished.”

The big dogs ranch rescue from the property were likely bred and trained specifically for use in fighting, the Humane Society noted. Dogs involved in dogfights can suffer severe bruising, deep puncture wounds, and broken bones. Common causes of death include dehydration, infection, blood loss, exhaustion, or shock, according to the nonprofit organization.

The rescue of over 120 dogs from a suspected dogfighting network in southern New Jersey highlights the cruelty and suffering inflicted upon these animals. Despite their hardships, the dogs showed resilience and affection, underscoring the stark contrast between their treatment and their innate nature. The diligent efforts of law enforcement and animal welfare organizations have provided these dogs with a chance for a better life, emphasizing the importance of combating such abhorrent practices.

The dogs have been relocated to a safe, confidential location and are receiving much-needed care and treatment, according to the Humane Society. This successful rescue operation serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against animal cruelty and the importance of advocating for the welfare of all animals.