A man was arrested and 12 dogs rescued after officers say they busted a dog-fighting ring in the Kensington section of Philadelphia.
On Sunday, Humane Law Enforcement Officers from the Pennsylvania SPCA executed a search warrant at a suspected breeding and dog fighting operation on the 3300 block of H Street.
Authorities arrested Rasheed Holland, 36, and rescued three adult pit bulls as well as nine puppies. Investigators say paraphernalia typically used in animal fighting were found on the premises.
“There were two dogs in the backyard that were literally living in filth,” said George Bengal, director of Humane Law Enforcement. “They were scarred up and appeared definitely to be fighting animals or animals that had been used in fighting. When we made entry into the property, the basement, we found another adult pit bull along with nine puppies.”
The SPCA also called in the Philadelphia Police Department to investigate the discovery of narcotics found inside the property, according to investigators.
Holland is charged with possession of animals used in fighting, keeping animals in unsanitary conditions and other related offenses. Investigators say he may also face additional charges for the discovery of narcotics inside his property.
The rescued dogs were surrendered to the Pennsylvania SPCA and were brought to headquarters at 350 East Erie for evaluation and treatment. All of the animals will be available for adoption after they undergo medical and behavioral evaluations.
