January 16, 2008

CHICAGO – The Humane Society of the United States and the Chicago Police Department have teamed up to fight back against dogfighting.

To incentivize citizens to provide info, a $5,000 reward is being offered by the HSUS, for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those involved in the illegal sport.

The program, called “End Dogfighting in Chicago,” is part of a nationwide effort being pushed by the HSUS. It comes on the tail of the conviction of former NFL quarterback Michael Vick and features specialized police training about dogfighting.

To coincide, media and educational campaigns targeted to youth and a program involving street-level intervention with potential dogfighters are in the planning phase.

Research shows that dogfighting exists in criminal environments. And considering 86 percent of convicted animal fighters have been arrested for multiple violent crimes, fewer dogfighters means there won't be as many drug deals, robberies and gang violence.

Officials say there are over 40,000 active participants in dogfights nationwide. Let's hope Chicago's efforts decrease that number.

If you have information about illegal animal fighting, contact the Chicago Police Department at 1-800-535-STOP (7867).

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