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Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.
A months-long investigation into animal cruelty culminated in a massive weekend raid in East Texas, resulting in the arrest of 45 individuals and the dismantling of a large illegal dogfighting ring.
Dubbed “Operation Pitbull,” the crackdown took place in the rural community of Call, located within Newton County, following numerous complaints and tips that began pouring into the sheriff’s office months prior.
Newton County Sheriff Colton Havard detailed that multiple law enforcement agencies converged on the property on a Saturday night to execute a search warrant.
Before moving in, authorities deployed a drone equipped with thermal imaging technology, which quickly identified several “spotters” stationed around the perimeter to look out for police.
When officers breached the site, they discovered an active dog fight underway inside a purpose-built pit. While dozens of attendees attempted to escape by fleeing into the surrounding dark woods, law enforcement successfully tracked down and captured all 45 suspects.
A total of 16 dogs were discovered on the property. The two dogs actively fighting at the time of the raid were immediately separated and secured before being transported to the Nederland Emergency Veterinarian Clinic for treatment.
Veterinary staff noted that while the dogs’ physical injuries were relatively superficial, they were emotionally shut down and terrified upon arrival. However, caretakers have noted early signs of progress as the animals slowly begin to trust humans again.
In addition to the mass arrests, law enforcement towed approximately 40 vehicles from the rural property. A search of the site and vehicles yielded firearms, illegal narcotics in plain view, and $73,858 in U.S. currency, which was taken into evidence.
Sheriff Havard, who called the scene one of the most disturbing crimes he had ever witnessed in his career, vowed that animal cruelty and dogfighting will never be tolerated in the county.
Originally published here.
