Dozens Of Pit Bulls Rescued From Suspected Dogfighting Operation

TACOMA, WA — Almost 50 pit bulls were rescued from a Tacoma home Wednesday after a tipster told animal control the dogs appeared to be starving, according to the Pierce County Sheriff's Department. An animal control officer was dispatched to a house on Portland Avenue and found several dogs who were malnourished and had scars on their bodies.

Teams from the Pierce County Sheriff's Department, the Washington State Gambling Commission, and the Seattle Animal Shelter served a search warrant on the property Wednesday.

Investigators said dozens of dogs were found inside a garage, locked in crates with no ventilation or lighting. Officers reported medications, syringes, first-aid supplies, and training equipment nearby, leading them to believe the dogs were being used for fighting.

According to Animal Control, most of the dogs were in poor condition, and at least three of them had given birth to puppies in the last six months. Of the 49 pit bulls rescued, 11 required further medical attention and were taken to a veterinarian. The other animals were taken to the Tacoma Humane Society.

The 40-year-old man responsible for the dogs was arrested and booked into jail on suspicion of animal cruelty and animal fighting.