Indianapolis, Indiana – In a significant operation, federal authorities have rescued approximately 90 dogs, including puppies, as part of an extensive investigation into an illicit animal fighting and illegal gambling ring. The announcement of this operation came on Thursday, shedding light on the disturbing activities that have been taking place.
A total of 21 individuals now face a multitude of charges stemming from their involvement in dog fighting, drug trafficking, illegal gambling, money laundering, and the unlawful possession of firearms. These revelations have been disclosed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) asserting that the accused group is affiliated with a neighborhood-based gang operating within the city of Indianapolis.
The uncovering of this distressing animal fighting and illegal gambling operation was an offshoot of a broader interstate drug smuggling investigation conducted last year. During the course of this operation, law enforcement authorities seized four phones, enabling detectives to establish connections between several of the accused individuals and the dog fighting ring. Newly unsealed court documents have provided insights into these connections.
“The allegations are deeply disturbing,” commented Zach Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, as he addressed the gravity of the situation.
