A South Philly man is heading to trial for animal cruelty after 13 dogs were discovered in his home.
Carlton Lane, 39, allegedly held the dogs to fight them and is now charged with 13 felony counts of animal fighting, 13 counts of animal cruelty and two misdemeanors.
"We take this crime very seriously and are hopeful that the court will return a guilty verdict and impose an equally serious penalty in this case," said Pennsylvania SPCA CEO Jerry Buckley.
Lane and his 13 dogs were discovered on the 2200 block of Mifflin Street after PSPCA officers executed a search warrant. Officers found eight puppies and five adult dogs surrounded by treadmills and spring poles potentially used to train the dogs for fighting.
Some of the animals had visible injuries and one Pit bull was missing an eye. Investigators also found blood and a treadmill inside the row home, officials said.
"Animals used for fighting are victimized every day,” said Buckley. “Thankfully, these dogs are in a safe place, and four have found new homes. Nine of these dogs still wait for their forever homes.”
