The HSUS Commends Portland Trail Blazers for Player Suspension Pending Dogfighting Investigation

October 13, 2004

SEATTLE—The HSUS today praised the Portland Trail Blazers organization for its quick response to allegations that reserve forward Qyntel Woods is involved in dogfighting. Woods was suspended without pay yesterday and an investigation is underway.

According to press reports, Woods allegedly abandoned his injured pit bull after the dog was reportedly wounded in an illegal dogfight. Based on those allegations, the Oregon Humane Society and the Clackamas County Sheriff’s deputies searched Woods’ home for evidence of dogfighting last Monday. Charges have not been filed in the case. Dogfighting is illegal in all 50 states, and a felony offense in 48 states, including Oregon. If charged and convicted of dogfighting, Woods could face up to five years in prison and a $100,000 fine.

Recent years have seen an upward spike in dog fighting among professional athletes. Former NFL running back LeShon Johnson is facing prison time in Oklahoma for his alleged involvement in dogfighting. Former Dallas Cowboys lineman Nate Newton was once arrested at a dogfight. Former Oakland Raider Tyrone Wheatley even once bragged about having sold dogs for fighting.

“Professional sports organizations should have a zero tolerance policy for animal abuse,” said Robert Reder, regional director of The HSUS Pacific Northwest Office in Seattle. “We urge other professional sports franchises to follow the Trail Blazers’ lead in taking seriously any allegations that their players may be involved in this cruel and illegal activity.

The HSUS urges all sports franchises to follow the lead of the Portland Trail Blazers and send a clear message that involvement in dogfighting is unacceptable.

The Clackamas County Sheriff’s department is investigating this case with the assistance of the Oregon Humane Society, which is not affiliated with The HSUS.

The Humane Society of the United States is the nation’s largest animal protection organization with more than eight million members and constituents. The HSUS is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals and equine protection, wildlife and habitat protection, animals in research and farm animals and sustainable agriculture. The HSUS protects all animals through legislation, litigation, investigation, education, advocacy and fieldwork. The non-profit organization, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2004, is based in Washington, DC and has 10 regional offices across the country. On the web at www.hsus.org.

The HSUS Pacific Northwest Regional Office serves Washington, Oregon, Alaska and Idaho.

Related Links

Dogfighting Fact Sheet