Reward offered in Lansing, Michigan Dogfighting Case

May 11, 2006

NAPERVILLE, Ill.-The Humane Society of the United States is offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for illegal dogfighting, resulting in the deaths of at least four dogs discovered on May 4 in Lansing, Michigan.

The Case:
Ingham County Animal Control officers made a grisly discovery when responding to reports of dogs abandoned in a house on the 400 block of South Detroit in Lansing.  Officers found four pit bulls dead outside on the property and three pit bulls still alive. According to Jamie McAloon-Lampman, director of Ingham County Animal Control, the house had obvious signs that dogfighting had taken place there, including a blood-stained "pit" on the premises.  Additionally, officers discovered equipment used in the training of fighting dogs and illegal firearms.

Animal Fighting:
The Humane Society of the United States and law enforcement agencies have long recognized the connection between animal fighting, animal cruelty and other illegal crimes.  The HSUS's Final Round Campaign raises public awareness and educates communities about dogfighting, cockfighting and hog dog fighting. The HSUS offers rewards in animal cruelty and animal fighting cases across the country and works to strengthen laws to combat these abuses. For more information on animal fighting, go to www.hsus.org.

The Investigators:
Ingham County Animal Control is actively pursuing any leads in this case.  Anyone with information is urged to contact Jamie McAloon-Lampman at 517-676-8376.

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The Humane Society of the United States is the nation's largest animal protection organization with more than 9.5 million members and constituents. The HSUS is a mainstream voice for animals, with active programs in companion animals,, disaster preparedness and response, wildlife and habitat protection, animals in research, equine protection and farm animal welfare. The HSUS protects all animals through education, investigation, litigation, legislation, advocacy, and field work. The non-profit organization is based in Washington and has field representatives and offices across the country. On the web at hsus.org.

The HSUS Central States Regional Office serves Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri,