Experts from The Humane Society of the United States’ Animal Rescue Team assisted the Pittsburgh Police Department and Wilkinsburg Police Department in a dogfighting investigation and raid resulting in the seizure of 13 dogs and suspected dogfighting paraphernalia.
Darryl Bryant was arrested and charged with animal fighting, a third-degree felony in Pennsylvania. These charges carry a penalty of up to seven years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
Bryant is well-known in the dogfighting community and has allegedly been involved in the blood sport since the 1980s and owns Wargasm Kennels.
“Dogfighting is a despicable crime, where dogs are fought in a ring for entertainment, and we commend the Pittsburgh and Wilkinsburg police departments for putting this alleged dogfighter out of business,” said Janette Reever, deputy manager of animal fighting investigations for The HSUS. “It’s good to know that the cycle of violence has ended for these dogs.”
The HSUS brought the mobile crime lab and Pittsburgh veterinarian Ann Cirillo of Seven Fields Veterinary Hospital examined the dogs on the scene. Experts from The HSUS were on hand to identify and document evidence and coordinate the rescue effort. Hello Bully, a Pittsburgh-based pit bull rescue group, assisted The HSUS in transporting the dogs to an undisclosed location where they will be cared for and provided with enrichment while the case awaits trial.
Facts
- Dogfighting is a felony in all 50 states.
- It is a third-degree felony to own, possess, keep, or train a dog for the purpose of dogfighting in Pennsylvania.
- Those involved in illegal dogfighting can receive up to seven years in prison and a fine of no more than $15,000.
- The HSUS offers rewards of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of any person involved in illegal animal fighting. The HSUS asks anyone with information about animal fighting criminals to call 877-TIP-HSUS (877-847-4787). Tipsters’ identities are protected.
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