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Tipsters Get $5K For Reporting Dog Fighting
Vintage phone via Shutterstock
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors showed their appreciation of those involved in the successful recent conviction of an Antelope Valley couple who bred pit bulls and trained them to fight in their weekly meeting, and the moment is serving as a reminder of how valuable the dog fighting tip line is.
The convicted Antelope Valley couple's activities were noted by tipsters on the LA County 24-hour Dog Fighting Tipline last march, reports City News Service. The tip "led sheriff's deputies and animal control officers to 11 adult pit bulls, 'all bearing fresh scars,' and three puppies at the couple's Lake Los Angeles home, L.A. County Supervisor Michael Antonovich said.
District Attorney Steve Cooley "said dog fighting is often associated with other violent crimes, drugs and gangs," notes CNS. "In this case, deputies found cocaine in the home where the couple lived with their four children."
“The tip line is available 24/7 and reports can be made anonymously,” said Marcia Mayeda, Director for the County of Los Angeles Department of Animal Care and Control in a recent e-mailed news release. “It is important for the public to understand that, in addition to the barbaric activity of dog fighting, weapons, drugs, gambling and alcohol consumption are often associated with dog fighting. Please use the Tip Line to report this activity and refrain from getting involved,” said Mayeda.
Additionally, tipsters whose info leads to arrest or conviction are given a $5000 reward.
The identity of callers will remain confidential.
In the state of California, dog fighters can be charged with a felony, and can find their property seized. Additionally, spectators attending dog fights can also be arrested.
Sponsored message
The tip line is run with the funding support of the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and Found Animals Foundation.
The Tip Line phone number is (877) NO2FITE or (877) 662-3483.
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You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our nonprofit newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our communities. We are free to follow facts wherever they lead and to hold power to account without fear or favor. Our only loyalty is to our readers and listeners and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen Southern California’s communities.
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