The Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Bureau of Criminal Investigation has announced the seizure of 28 dogs following an extensive animal cruelty and dog fighting investigation in Luzerne County.
The investigation began when the Pennsylvania State Police Animal Cruelty Officer assisted in executing a search warrant at a residence in West Hazleton Borough. While conducting the search, authorities discovered multiple indicators of animal fighting activities. This prompted a second search warrant, which led to the recovery of 19 dogs crated inside the residence and eight dogs found crated in a backyard shed. One additional dog was found running loose on the property and was safely captured.
In cooperation with Griffin Pond Animal Shelter and the Luzerne County Animal Response Team, the seized dogs were removed from the property. Initially cared for at Griffin Pond, the dogs have since been transferred to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) for further evaluation. The ASPCA will conduct forensic veterinary examinations, provide medical care, and perform behavioral assessments to determine the dogs' well-being and future placement.
Authorities confirmed that the individual subject to the search warrant has been detained in the Luzerne County Jail on unrelated criminal charges. The PSP has stated that their investigation into the suspected dog fighting operation remains ongoing.