Don’t Let Dogfighters Escape Serious Consequences in Mississippi
This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Animals still need your help.
A recent change in Georgia law will now help bring additional charges against those involved in dogfighting, while a recent case in Mississippi points to the need for the state to do the same. Urge Mississippi Senator Angela Hill to once again be an advocate for animals by adding racketeering charges to the state's dogfighting law.
In May 2023, deputies from the Jones County Sheriff's Department arrested Dontrelle Keys after being tipped off about possible dogfighting on a dead-end street.
When the officers arrived, they heard people yelling and what sounded like dogs fighting in a wooded area. Participants scattered, but after chasing Keyes through the woods and arresting him, they also found 15-20 dogs who were chained up. They were left with shelter and water until they could be seized.
Keyes, who was charged with being a spectator, pleaded guilty and is facing a felony charge carrying up to a $5,000 fine and a maximum year imprisonment.
“Pitting” dogs to make a profit by indulging the perverse thrill that some people get by watching dogs rip & tear one another's flesh and crush their bones is vile. The use of terrified “bait” animals of any available species is maddening. Kittens, rabbits, chickens, other dogs, and even small wild animals like raccoons all can be used. People rightfully fret over finding dogs on heavy chains, it's only the more public face of the brutal, exhausting training, and “culling” of unprofitable dogs.
We'll be following his sentencing. In the meantime, please urge Mississippi State Senator Angela Hill to propose legislation that would make the necessary change to Mississippi law similar to the recent law passed in Georgia that makes dogfighting a racketeering crime, or a crime that makes a profit, making penalties heftier for those involved.
Without each of us exposing cruelty and acting together to prevent harm and seek justice for our fellow species abusers would have no boundaries. We thank you.
This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Animals still need your help.