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STATEMENT OF MATHIAS H. HECK, JR. PROSECUTING ATTORNEY Re: Operation Bite Back June 12, 2007 Investigators spent 14 months investigating the illegal activity of dog fighting and developed relationships with subjects involved in dog fights. These undercover agents attended dog fights in Montgomery County between April, 2006 and March 2007. The details of what is now called “Operation Bite Back” uncovered is truly astonishing. In some of these cases children were present. Concession stands sold drinks and snacks for the participants and spectators. In addition to some fights charging admission at the door, money changed hands illegally as side betting occurred on which dog will win. I’m not going to go into the horrific details of the sadistic treatment dogs receive as a result of dog fighting. We all know that the animals are mistreated and abused at best, and many times die. Another concern is the negative impact that this activity has in our neighborhoods. The presence of these dogs in our community increases the risk of attacks not only on other animals but also on people. Children are especially at risk, because their small size may cause a fighting dog to perceive a child as another animal. Children that are exposed to dog fighting learn to not respect the law, and to disregard the pain and discomfort that the dogs suffer. As we reported last year, when we indicted several individuals for dog fighting, illegal gambling is common at dogfights; dog owners and spectators wager thousands of dollars on their favorites. There are often activities such as drug trafficking and illegal firearms at these events. It is a felony offense in Ohio to observe, witness or participate in a dog fight, as well as to possess a dog bred and trained for fighting. Those individuals identified in “Operation Bite Back” as having committed state crimes have today been indicted by the Montgomery County Grand Jury. 38 defendants have been indicted today for: · dog fighting · witnessing/attending a dog fight · attempting to attend/witness dog fighting. There were six locations in Montgomery County where these fights occurred. It is interesting to note that, of the 38 defendants indicted:
Some traveled here from Michigan, Kentucky, Pennsylvania and even Alabama for these fights. These 38 defendants are collectively charged with committing nearly 100 felony crimes. In addition, there were approximately 60 fighting dogs seized during Operation Bite Back, and they have all been euthanized. Prosecutor Mat Heck, Jr. said, “We will not tolerate dog fighting in our community. This is a dangerous, sadistic activity that is a blight on our community.” |
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