Target: Alan Wilson, Attorney General of South Carolina
Goal: Seek the maximum lawful sentences, lifetime animal-ownership bans, restitution, and aggressive prosecution for those allegedly running dogfighting rings that left over 200 dogs chained, injured, and traumatized.
State investigators reportedly dismantled multiple illegal dogfighting operations and rescued more than 200 dogs in one year. Forensic examinations documented heavy chains, circular dirt “pits,” and dogs kept just out of each other’s reach, with injured animals treated as living equipment rather than companions. Charges were brought against dozens of suspects, while evidence at some scenes reportedly included bite wounds, scarring, and crude sleeping barrels.
Dogfighting rarely stands alone. Raids in these cases allegedly produced dozens of animal-cruelty counts along with firearm offenses, drug charges, and allegations involving children present on properties. A small five-person team handles these complex investigations, then must coordinate rapid placement and behavioral assessment for large numbers of seized dogs. Advocates add that many rescued dogs can recover with careful rehabilitation, though long-term costs remain significant.
Real deterrence requires firm, public accountability. Prosecutors can seek felony convictions where supported by the evidence, lifetime bans on owning or residing with animals, strict no-contact conditions, restitution for cost-of-care under state law, and forfeiture of fighting paraphernalia. This petition urges the Attorney General to support solicitors statewide in pursuing the toughest permissible penalties in alleged dogfighting cases, and to prioritize victim care through restitution and permanent ownership prohibitions when allegations are proven.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Attorney General Alan Wilson,
We urge your office to support the strongest lawful penalties in the suspected dogfighting cases now moving through South Carolina courts. Reports indicate that more than 200 dogs were rescued from rings in a single year, with forensic findings allegedly showing heavy chains, dirt circles worn into yards, and dogs kept just beyond each other’s reach. These scenes, as described by investigators, reveal systematic cruelty that turns sentient beings into disposable tools.
SLED’s data further show that such cases often coincide with other crimes, including weapons and narcotics offenses, and charges involving children on site. When evidence supports it, we ask that your office encourage felony prosecutions, advocate for lifetime bans on owning or residing with animals, seek strict no-contact terms, and pursue full restitution for veterinary treatment and sheltering under the Cost of Care framework. These measures protect communities, support victim rehabilitation, and send a clear signal that organized animal abuse will face decisive consequences.
Please also continue coordinating with local solicitors and partner agencies so these cases receive consistent, vigorous treatment statewide. A visible, tough outcome where allegations are proven will deter copycats and honor the dogs who endured chains, wounds, and fear. Thank you for your leadership in holding accountable those who allegedly profit from cruelty.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Alexey Komarov
