MACON, Ga. — Nearly a dozen of federal search warrants were executed in multiple counties across Georgia after authorities rescued 168 dogs involved in a suspected illegal dog fighting ring.
The 168 rescued dogs are now in the care of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Authorities say many of the animals are malnourished with scarring, and some are severely injured and require surgery or other medical intervention.
For example, one animal, a female pit bull, was discovered chained with broken legs, malnourished and overbred.
During the rescue, an emergency veterinarian was on hand to administer care to the pit bull. At least two dogs had emergency surgery to treat their injuries.
The investigation was conducted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.
“I am incredibly grateful to the law enforcement teams who came together from all over the region to rescue these abused animals as we continue to investigate this alleged dog fighting ring,” said U.S. Attorney Charlie Peeler. “Illegal dog fighting is a barbaric activity. Those who choose to violate the Animal Welfare Act face serious consequences, including federal prison time, where there is no parole.”
This is an ongoing investigation, and at this time, no arrests have been made on federal charges.
Eleven federal search warrants were executed at the following locations on Wednesday:
1. 323 Ruby Street, Macon, Bibb County, Georgia
2. 16 Spruce Lane, Roberta, Crawford County, Georgia
3. 99 Calloway Drive, Roberta, Crawford County, Georgia
4. 107 Stanton Circle, Warner Robins, Houston County, Georgia
5. 407 Vienna Street, Fort Valley, Peach County, Georgia
6. 718 Green Street, Apt. A101, Fort Valley, Peach County, Georgia
7. 223 Buckrun Road, Talbotton, Talbot County, Georgia
8. 293 Chapman Road, Shiloh, Talbot County, Georgia
9. 838 Jeff Hendricks Road, Woodland, Talbot County, Georgia
10. 65 Turner Estates Road, Reynolds, Taylor County, Georgia
11. 369 Millard Kennedy Road, Preston, Webster County, Georgia
