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August 11, 2009

Indiana Dogfighting Busts

Two alleged dogfighting operations raided in Indiana

The Humane Society of the United States

On August 11, 2009, The Humane Society of the United States assisted authorities in raids on two separate, alleged dogfighting operations in Indiana.

The Indiana Gaming Commission and Indiana State Police led the raid in which one person was arrested and more than 90 dogs, along with alleged dogfighting paraphernalia, were seized.

Law enforcement officials requested animal fighting experts with The Humane Society of the United States to identify dogfighting paraphernalia and assist with the investigations.

"Dogfighting is a criminal underground industry that breeds horrible animal suffering and violence," said Adam Parascandola, animal fighting investigator for The Humane Society of the United States. "We commend the Indiana Gaming Commission for working with numerous agencies to conduct these successful investigations."

First Property: Nine Dogs

Brian E. Denny, the apparent owner of an operation in French Lick, Ind., was preliminarily charged with possessing an animal for the purpose of animal fighting contests. Authorities seized nine dogs from the property, some showing scars consistent with dogfighting, and alleged dogfighting paraphernalia.

Second Property: More Than 80 Dogs

Eli Taylor, the owner of the property seven miles southeast of Paoli, Ind., has yet to be located. Authorities seized more than 80 dogs from the property. Some of the dogs had scars consistent with dogfighting.

Veterinarians with Purdue University Veterinary Science Department assisted with the raid and evaluated the seized dogs for evidence of animal fighting. The Humane Society of Missouri led area animal welfare organizations including Albany Floyd County Animal Shelter, Bloomington Animal Care & Control and Monroe County Humane Association on handling and transporting the dogs.

Additional law enforcement agencies represented during Tuesday's raids include the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, US Marshal Service and the Orange County Sheriff's Office.

Facts