Animal advocates link arrest to push for the bipartisan FIGHT Act
Washington, D.C. — Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy applauded South Carolina law enforcement officers for arresting a Chester County man in connection with an organized dogfighting ring. The arrest sends a clear message that cruelty to animals will not be tolerated and that perpetrators will be held accountable under the law.
Authorities arrested Justin Elzer King on multiple charges, including animal fighting, ill-treatment of animals, conspiracy, and related offenses tied to the brutal enterprise. This arrest is part of an ongoing, intensified effort by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and local partners to dismantle cruel and illegal dogfighting operations across the state—efforts that have already resulted in the rescue of scores of injured, malnourished, and abused dogs in recent months.
“Organized dogfighting is a violent and barbaric crime that subjects defenseless animals to intense suffering and death for the twisted thrills of the organizers,” said Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy. “People who stage dogfights are lawless, violent individuals who are a threat to the public good. Taking them off the streets makes our communities safer and benefits us all.”
Investigators seized several pit bull-type dogs from the property. Veterinary evaluations revealed evidence consistent with dogfighting and torture. Injuries included scarring on the muzzle, face, head, eyes, ears, and legs—patterns consistent with dogfighting.
Dogfighting cases frequently involve other serious crimes, including weapons violations and narcotics distribution. The coordinated work of SLED, local sheriff’s departments, and animal protection partners is critical to uncovering these interconnected criminal enterprises and rescuing animals before further harm occurs.
Animal Wellness Action also urges Congress to pass the bipartisan FIGHT Act (H.R. 3946/S. 1454) to bolster enforcement tools, including bans on shipping fighting birds through the mail, outlawing simulcast gambling on cockfights, and enhancing forfeiture provisions for property used in these criminal enterprises. U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace, R-SC, is the lone co-sponsor of the FIGHT Act from South Carolina.
More than 1,000 agencies and law enforcement organizations across the nation have endorsed the FIGHT Act, including the South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association. The FIGHT Act has 128 members of Congress and 11 U.S. senators from both sides of the aisle as cosponsors.
Animal Wellness Action urges continued vigilance by law enforcement and the public alike. We encourage anyone with information about animal cruelty or dogfighting activities to contact local authorities immediately or to share tips with us at animalcrueltytips@animalwellnessaction.org. Together, we can ensure South Carolina remains a state where animal cruelty is not ignored and where justice is swift and firm.