"The number of raids on dogfighting operations has doubled since the Vick case. The number of new laws is 26, including both state and federal, including a new law in Indiana, which makes it a felony to be a spectator in an animal fight," said John Goodwin with the Humane Society of the United States.
Indianapolis ranks among the top five cities in the country for dogfighting, which authorities attribute to its central location.
Indianapolis Animal Care and Control launched an Animal Cruelty Task Force two years ago and have since uncovered dogfighting rings in the city, officials said.
"Everything is so secretive. The only way to catch them is actually in the act," said lead investigator Lt. Jerry Bippus. "You got your other crimes to go along with it. You've got your drug dealing. You've got your weapons. And then you have gambling. That's what dogfighting is. It's all about the gambling."
Bippus said puppies bred from dogfighting champions can fetch up to $20,000.
Authorities said if people suspect dogfighting they should look for ownership of several dogs, tires or other items suspended from trees to provide jaw-strengthening activities and a treadmill, used to train dogs for fighting.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Indy Ranks In Top Five Cities For Dogfighting
Indianapolis now has another negative distinction. We rank among the top five cities in the country for illegal dogfighting. WRTV's Renee Jameson brings the news:
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This should come as no shock to anyone. Doug Rae, the director of Indianapolis Animal Care and Control will sell a vicious dog to anyone with the money. He even has a $4 special. These dogs are used for bait dogs to sharpen the skills of the prized fighting dogs. In the past, dogs had to pass a test to prove that they were tame enough to be trusted in the nieghborhoods around our family. All unclaimed Pit Bulls were euthanized. He also abolished that. Not only is dog fighting on the rise but dog bites and attacks are also.
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