ALGIERS -- Police believe they found a dog fighting ring during a drug raid in Algiers.
According to the LASPCA, NOPD officers found seven American Pitbull Terriers during a drug raid on Jan. 29. All seven showed signs of possible dog fighting.
"It was muddy, the animals were chained up in kennels with no access to food and water," said Louisiana SPCA Communications Director, Alicia Vial. "There was one dog who registered at 25 pounds that had a chain weighing 21 pounds."
In addition to paraphernalia, like syringes and other equipment, officials say some were also found to be extremely malnourished and hurt.
"Typically we see a lot of scaring on their face, legs, paws, ears a lot of time," said Louisiana SPCA Client Care Supervisor, Beth Renfro. "They did have the homemade treadmills to practice the dogs for fighting. There were things like old syringes. It could be they were doing their own vaccinations, or using steroids or growth hormones."
The animals were taken to the Louisiana SPCA for treatment and care. The accused owners, 21-year-old Rodney Steadman and 35-year-old Romyrim Henry, were arrested and taken to Orleans Parish Prison. A third person was also arrested during the incident, but it's unclear what charges that person faces.
"Right now we're holding all seven of the animals until trial," Renfro said. "They have a cruelty bond set on them and they're considered evidence in this case."
A cruelty bond means the owner, even though behind bars, is responsible for all of the dogs' charges including medical. As the animals recover, they'll stay put at the Louisiana SPCA until a decision is made by the court.
"It was really sad and unfortunate," Renfro said. "These dogs were not well-enough cared for, just living in the backyard, some on chains, some outside on crates. It was a sad situation, none of the officers felt good at the end of the day."
It's a horrible situation, that can happen anywhere. Which is why officials encourage people to keep an eye out and report anything they find alarming.
"If you see something, say something," Vial said. "You can always remain anonymous, it won't backlash on you. If you think something is wrong odds are it is."
Steadman faces a total of 12 charges and a bond of $58,000. Romyrim faces a total of 14 charges and a bond of $65,000. They both have upcoming court appearances.
If you see something that should be reported to the Louisiana SPCA, you can do so by sending an e-mail, logging a complaint online or calling them at 504-368-5191 ext. 100. More information can be found on their website.