8 Pit Bulls Seized In Raid On Meriden Dog-Fighting Ring: AG Tong

MERIDEN, CT — The state is seeking custody of eight pit bulls seized in a raid of a Meriden property suspected of being part of a multistate dog-fighting ring, according to a statement from state Attorney General William Tong. State police raided a property at 109 Britannia St. on July 31 and found eight pit bulls in cages in a backyard.

Police found a large, makeshift, portable dog-fighting ring and a turf square stained with suspected dried animal blood, according to the statement.

Police also seized leashes, hanging ropes designed to strengthen dogs’ jaws and neck muscles to improve biting, dog treadmills, a bicycle and attached harness designed to force dogs to run, “break stick” knives to force dogs’ jaws to open after bites, a whip, electronic animal scales, electric collars, and weighted vests.

The dogs appear to be between one and five years old and physically healthy. Two of the dogs have healed scars consistent with dog fighting. A state animal control officer determined two dogs were too aggressive to be safely removed and returned to their kennels for a complete examination, according to the statement.

The dogs are in state police custody as evidence in the investigation into the dog fighting ring. Tong is now seeking to place the dogs under permanent custody of the Department of Agriculture.

"Dog fighting is cruel and illegal," Tong said in a statement. "These pit bulls were viciously abused and conditioned to be aggressive and violent fighters. A multistate police investigation is ongoing and those responsible for these heinous crimes will be held to justice. We are moving today for permanent state custody to ensure the safe care of the abused dogs."