Police Rescue 47 Dogs, Bred for Fighting, From a Bronx Basement
6/22/2012
Police and animal workers rescued dozens of dogs and puppies from the basement of a Bronxbuilding yesterday. The animals were being held in an illegal breeding operation in connection with a dog-fighting ring.
Police arrested 57-year-old Raul Sanchez for arrested for animal cruelty and fighting charges.
47 dogs, pit bulls ranging from 12 weeks to 5 years old, were recovered from the basement of the building with police also recovering a gun, 22 wooden cages, dog treadmills, harnesses and muzzles. The basement also had a makeshift arena for spectators.
Residents of theSherman Avenue apartment building said they had no idea.
“The most surprising thing is that you didn’t really hear the dogs,” NYPD Deputy Inspector Anthony Favale said. Sources said the dogs’ vocal chords were damaged to prevent their barking.
The dogs were taken to a shelter for medical aid since many showed clear signs of fighting and abuse. They will also be evaluated for behavioral issues before they can be considered for adoption.
PHOTO CREDIT DNAinfo/Jeanmarie Evelly