Over 120 dogs have been rescued and authorities have charged eight individuals in relation to an alleged dogfighting network that was operating across various properties in southern New Jersey, according to reports.
Law enforcement officials carried out search and seizure warrants on Wednesday in Cumberland and Atlantic counties as part of an alleged dogfighting operation in Cumberland County, revealed Attorney General Matthew Platkin on Friday. In a commendable effort, over 120 dogs that had been purposefully bred and trained to engage in fights were successfully rescued from various properties, Platkin confirmed.
In a news conference on Friday, Platkin characterized the state’s search and rescue operation as its most significant crackdown on a dogfighting ring. The Division of Criminal Justice, the New Jersey State Police, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture conducted an extensive investigation, resulting in the arrest and charging of eight individuals. The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office issued a news release detailing the collaborative efforts of these agencies.
The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office has accused Bruce Low Jr., a 44-year-old man from Milmay, Atlantic County, of being the mastermind behind a dogfighting network. Low Jr. is facing multiple charges, including racketeering, conspiracy, money laundering, and cruelty to animals.
The New Jersey Attorney General’s Office has charged several members of Low’s family, as well as other alleged co-conspirators and two limited liability companies, in connection with the dogfighting network.
Platkin: Dog-fighting raid a ‘heart-wrenching task’
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During the news conference, State Police Superintendent Patrick Callahan revealed that the rescue operation last week was the culmination of an extensive two-year investigation. In the early hours of Wednesday morning, New Jersey State Police arrived at the scene to secure the area for a team of animal care specialists. These specialists carefully examined the dogs and safely relocated them to a secure location.
Platkin expressed his gratitude to the individuals who were involved in the operation, acknowledging the challenging and emotionally draining nature of the task. The relentless rain added to the difficulty, making their efforts even more remarkable. Platkin referred to these individuals as true heroes, emphasizing the magnitude of their contribution.
The Humane Society of the United States revealed that dogs and puppies were found residing in cramped pens and cages within several buildings. In addition, some of them were discovered outdoors, enduring the rain in pens or tethered to heavy chains.
The Humane Society reported that they observed dogs with noticeable scarring and untreated wounds. They also noted several emaciated dogs, including pregnant and nursing mothers.
According to the Humane Society, even in the face of harsh conditions, numerous dogs welcomed responders with wagging tails and affectionate kisses. However, there were also dogs who appeared more hesitant, hunching over and cautiously peering at the responders.
Janette Reever, animal crimes investigations program manager for the Humane Society, emphasized the stark contrast between the immense suffering endured by dogs involved in dogfighting and their inherent sweetness and longing for affection. Despite being subjected to harsh conditions, including shivering in the cold rain, these dogs displayed their unwavering eagerness to greet their rescuers by leaving their meager shelters.
Companies also charged in dogfighting case
The authorities suspect that Royal Bull Kennels and the Kisdir Group construction company in Cumberland County were involved in money laundering activities.
According to Platkin, Royal Bull Kennels was primarily involved in the buying and selling of fighting dogs for profit. Additionally, they would charge significant stud fees from other breeders who wanted to breed their dogs with RBK’s dogs.
Five residents of Maurice River Township, namely Terri A. Low, Bryce J. Low, Coy Glenn Dickenson, Mark Runkle, and William McClinton, have been charged with racketeering. Roosevelt Hart IV from Milmay and Travis Garron from Port Elizabeth are also accused of the same crime.
According to the state Attorney General’s Office, the alleged leader’s mother is Low, his son is Bryce Low, and his son-in-law is Roosevelt Hart IV. Some of the defendants are also facing charges of money laundering and dogfighting offenses.
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