Humane Law Enforcement Awards Presented For Georgia Dog Fighting Case

The Humane Society of the United States presented 2014 Humane Law Enforcement Awards to the federal, state, and local agencies responsible for a successful dogfighting case that resulted in the rescue of more than 140 dogs in Georgia. After a four-year long investigation, seven individuals have been prosecuted in connection to the “229 Boys Kennel Club, Inc.” who bred, purchased, sold, and trained American Pit Bull Terriers for the purpose of dogfight gambling.

A special awards ceremony took place June 2, 2015 at the United States Attorney’s Office in the Middle District of Georgia in honor of the cooperative agencies that brought the individuals to justice: the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Sylvester and Americus Field Offices; the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General; the U.S. Marshals Service; and the Albany Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Julia C. Bowen prosecuted the case on behalf of the Government.

“People who breed animals simply for the sport of killing them show a lack of conscience that is shocking,” United States Attorney Michael Moore said. “These people literally gamble in the flesh and blood of man’s best friend. My office will continue to dismantle any organization in Middle Georgia whose primary objective is to commit criminal conduct through such cruel methods.”

The Humane Society of the United States celebrates the work of law enforcement to crack down on animal fighting, puppy mills, the illegal wildlife trade, poaching, and other forms of cruelty and abuse. Humane Law Enforcement Award recipients exemplify the best of law enforcement in protecting animals from needless violence and harm.

“The Humane Society of the United States recognizes the hard work, dedication and strength of spirit it takes to investigate and prosecute animal cruelty,” said Chris Schindler, manager of animal fighting investigations for The HSUS. “We are grateful for all the agencies who take on these cases, and we are privileged to honor those who stand out among the rest. The agencies involved in bringing down a number of dogfighters in Georgia are commended for their efforts and success.”