Darlington County, South Carolina — The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division announced Wednesday that two men are facing charges in Darlington County for animal fighting and criminal conspiracy.
Tyese Williamson, 45, and Wayne Romano McDaniel, 48, were charged with animal fighting or baiting, criminal conspiracy, and animal cruelty on Thursday, August 29.
SLED discovered canines in “incredibly poor” condition at a residence in Darlington County, which led to the alleged illegal conduct. Two dogs were euthanized. According to an SLED news release, eight canines and five puppies were transferred for veterinarian care.
“Dogfighting will not be tolerated in South Carolina,” declared SLED Chief Mark Keel. “It is harsh and jeopardizes the safety of our communities. Animal abuse does not provide enjoyment or profit to law-abiding citizens. SLED is committed to collaborating with our local, state, and federal partners to eradicate dogfighting.
SLED initially searched the residence on Gallowaytown Road for possible narcotics. However, throughout the search, police enforcement located pit bull-type canines chained in the backyard, according to the arrest warrant.
The dogs’ scars were “consistent with dog fighting,” according to law officials. The canines’ injuries also appeared neglected, resulting in “unnecessary pain and suffering.”
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals helped with operational planning and removal, evidence collecting, legal and investigative assistance, forensic exams, and medical and behavioral treatment for the 13 canines taken off the property, according to law enforcement.
The canines were moved to an ASPCA-operated emergency shelter.
“Dogfighting is a brutal form of animal cruelty in which dogs are exploited and forced to fight one another for the entertainment and profit of spectators,” stated Teresa Ladner, the ASPCA’s senior director of investigations. “We are grateful to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division for pursuing this case, which gets us one step closer to eliminating dogfighting nationwide, once and for all.”
+ There are no comments
Add yours