May 15, 2008
Animal Control Officers from the County Department of Animal Services served a search warrant at a house on Boundary Avenue yesterday morning in Ramona.
Officers found 10 Pit Bull Terriers believed to be used for dogfighting. The dogs were found in separate kennel runs or chained and separated from each other. Some of the dogs were entangled around stakes and many of the dogs had facial and leg scarring. Officers also found various dogfighting paraphernalia such as treadmills, medications and syringes, trophies and dogfighting match schedules.
 “Dogfighting is a particularly brutal act – a blood sport,” said Lt. Dan DeSousa, Supervising Animal Control Officer for County Animal Services. “We will actively investigate any reports of this cruel activity and pursue prosecution through the District Attorney’s Office.”
Officers became aware of the problem after receiving a tip from a concerned citizen. All of the dogs were seized as evidence and will be safely housed at an Animal Services shelter in Carlsbad. No arrests have been made at this time and the case will be submitted for review by the District Attorney’s Office.
“Dogfighting is considered one of the most serious forms of animal abuse. It is illegal in all 50 states and a felony offense in most states, including California. Despite this, dogfighting is still very widespread,” said Lt. DeSousa.
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