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Jan 10, 2008 5:55 pm US/Central
Cops Get New Tool Against Dog Fighting
Humane Society Offering $5,000 Rewards For Information Leading To Dog Fighting Arrests
CHICAGO (CBS) ―
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Dog fighting is illegal in every state and a felony in 48.
CBS News
Chicago is trying to a new way to stop dog fighting. The violent, illegal sport leaves many animals dead and injured all over the city.
CBS 2's Derrick Blakley reports that Chicago police made 66 arrests for animal abuse last year, many involving dog fighting. But now, they have a new weapon at their disposal:
The Humane Society is instituting $5,000 rewards for information leading to dog-fighting arrests.
Spokeswoman Ann Chynoweth said, "I think its going to be a wonderful tool for law enforcement, to work with confidential informants, to get the word out so people are busted for this crime."
Chicago authorities don't believe dog fighting has increased, but calls about it have, since the sensational Michael Vick case raised awareness. Nationwide, an estimated 40,000 people are believed to be involved in violent, multi-state dog fighting rings.
Elvin Urbikis, with the Chicago Police animal fighting unit, said "We're very fortunate in Chicago that we have not come across any organized dog fighting issues like the Michael Vick case. The majority of it is these street corner kids with their dogs."
But the viciousness, and the effect on communities, is no less profound.
Interim Chicago Police Supt. Dana Starks said, "We know that associated with dog fighting is narcotic trafficking, violence and gang activity."
The Rev. Walter Johnson, of Waymon AME Church, said "86 per cent of those who have committed crimes against animals have been arrested for multiple violent offenses. We must do everything in our power to end this cycle of violence."
The reward program is already in effect in much of the country. In the past five months, the humane society has already issued five $5,000 rewards.
You can report dog fighting by calling 1-800-535-STOP (7867).
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