Natl. animal fighting tip line launched

The Humane Society of the United States has launched a national animal fighting tip line.

Persons with information on illegal animal fighting are urged to call 1-877-TIP HSUS. A reward of up to $5,000 is being offered to anyone with information leading to the arrest and conviction of someone involved in dog or cockfighting.

"Animal fighting is a cruel, criminal activity, and we plan to root it out in every dark corner where it festers," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The HSUS. "We encourage anyone with information about animal fighting crimes to call this tip line to help us put violators in jail and to put a stop to cruelty."

The tip line comes after the HSUS assisted federal, state and local authorities in what they call "the largest single series of raids of multiple dogfighting operation in the history of the U.S." More than 400 dogs were rescued and will be evaluated to determine if they're suitable candidates for adoption, or placement with rescue groups.

The animal fighting reward program was made possible through a grant program by the Holland M. Ware Charitable Foundation.

More information regarding dogfighting from HSUS:

Organized dogfighting is illegal everywhere in the United States and is a felony in all 50 states. To see a ranking of dogfighting laws state by state, visit humanesociety.org

Dogfighting is a criminal industry; more than 250,000 dogs are made to suffer in dogfighting pits each year.

The HSUS estimates that 40,000 people follow organized dogfighting circuits across the United States. The HSUS also estimates that an additional 100,000 street dogfighters meet on neighborhood streets, alleys and hideaways.

A Chicago Police Department study showed that 65 percent of people charged with animal abuse crimes — including dogfighting — were also charged with violent crimes against people.