Louisiana, Federal Law Enforcement Raid Property of Floyd Boudreaux, One of Nation's Most Notorious Dog Fighters

March 11, 2005

WASHINGTON — Today, Louisiana State Police, with assistance from federal law enforcement agents, The Humane Society of the United States and Louisiana SPCA, raided the property of Floyd Boudreaux, purported to be one of the most infamous dogfighters and breeders in the United States.  Agents executed the search warrant this morning at his home in Lafayette, Louisiana and are in the process of seizing more than 60 dogs and other evidence of dog fighting.  Boudreaux was not home during the raid, but was detained at a nearby location

Boudreaux's lineage of dogs dates back almost 60 years. The dogs, who are sold sometimes for tens of thousands of dollars, are bred and trained to compete in vicious fighting matches. According to information obtained through investigations by law enforcement and The HSUS, Boudreaux has a virtual army of followers nationwide who purchase his dogs for fighting. Boudreaux also sells his dogs internationally for matches all over the world.

The HSUS estimates that there are more than 40,000 people across the country who buy and sell fighting dogs and are involved in organized dog fighting.  Many registered pit bulls currently in circulation for fighting have allegedly come from Boudreaux's pedigree stock. Known as "Eli" dogs, the bloodline is considered the top choice for dog fighters.

"The arrest of Floyd Boudreaux should strike a devastating blow to the underground world of dog fighting," said Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States. "The HSUS is proud to work with Louisiana State Police, Louisiana SPCA and federal agents to disable Boudreaux's operation. This is a message to all animal fighters who believe their conduct is beyond the law's reach.  If we can arrest a kingpin like Boudreaux, then no dog fighter is safe from arrest and prosecution."

Five investigators and animal handlers from The HSUS are participating in the search and seizure of Boudreaux's property. The HSUS team is working in conjunction with Louisiana SPCA officials to assess and secure the dogs and relocate them while the investigation continues.

Laura Maloney, Louisiana SPCA director, said it was heartbreaking to see the dogs, tethered outside in rows of five, with trenches dug around the circumference of their doghouses. While several dogs were extremely aggressive and others marked with fighting scars, most of the animals were found in healthy condition.

Sandy Christiansen, HSUS investigator and animal fighting expert, reported from the scene that in addition to the dogs, agents discovered a couple hundred roosters, along with ample evidence of cockfighting including derby trophies, certificates and knives which are strapped to a rooster's talons as weapons prior to a fight. "Unfortunately, law enforcement cannot confiscate the roosters for cockfighting since the bloodsport is still legal in Louisiana," Christiansen said. "It is sad that these animals will be left behind in the custody of the Boudreaux household because state law does not protect them."

Dog fighting is illegal in all 50 states and a felony in 48. Cockfighting is illegal in every state except Louisiana and parts of New Mexico, and is a felony in 31 states. For more information on animal fighting, go to The HSUS web site at www.hsus.org.