Four Arrested in Autauga County for Dog Fighting

By Eileen Jones - bio | email

PRATTVILLE, AL (WSFA) - Autauga County deputies rescued 27 dogs and charged four people after uncovering what they believe is a dog fighting ring outside Prattville. The Sheriff says the four people arrested were out on bond on similar charges in Escambia County.

When the four were taken to jail they left behind 20 dogs and 7 puppies. Officers say the animals were tied to stakes with heavy chains even the puppies. Their food and water bowls were empty and dry as if they haven't had anything to eat or drink for days.

Overall, the dogs looked healthy but there were wounds and bruises enough to make you believe they were in a fight.

The Autauga County Sheriff's office, the Department of Agriculture, the District Attorney's office and the Attorney General's office were all involved in the investigation. A-G Troy King was on the scene right after the arrests. "I was asked the other day......what would you say to somebody who says well they're just dogs. I'd say to somebody who says they're just dogs - that's probably somebody who would say they're just kids or they're just seniors. We can not allow the defenseless among us to be abused and hurt and caged and chained as we see here."

Sheriff Herbie Johnson believes the four arrested include two brothers and their girlfriends. The Attorney General says they will be charged with 27 counts of permitting dog fighting.  That's one count for each dog found on the property. each count carries a penalty of one to ten years in prison or a fine up to 15-thousand dollars.

Photos Courtesy: Autauga Co. Sheriff's Office