More than 30 dogs were rescued from an apparent training ground for illegal dog-fighting in Meriwether County on Friday. Photo: Meriwether County Sheriff’s Office.
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When officers followed up on a call about a man walking a skinny pit bull on a heavy chain, NBC affiliate WXIA reported, they discovered a badly emaciated dog, its ribs and spine clearly visible through its skin. Follow-through allowed them to secure an arrest and search warrant on 52-year-old Sherman Holt’s Manchester, GA, home and what they discovered there was a horror show.
Out back flea-infested adults and two litters of puppies were living in deplorable condition.
One dog was chained to a treadmill, forced to walk. A large drum, filled with water, police presumed, served as another piece of “training” equipment where they were made to tread water.
Suspected dog “training” equipment, like this filthy water tub, were among the factors leading to the arrest. Photo: Meriwether County Sheriff’s Office.
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Many were restrained by logging chains. All were gravely malnourished.
Investigators found other evidence believed to be used in training and dog fighting and Holt was taken to jail on 25 counts of misdemeanor cruelty to animals, one count of dog fighting and nine counts of felony aggravated cruelty to animals.
His bond was set at $112,500.
The dogs were kept in horrific conditions. They are now in the custody of various local animal control agencies. Photo: Meriwether County Sheriff’s Office.
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Several agencies, including the Meriwether County Animal Control, LaGrange Animal Control, Fayette County Animal Control and Macon-Bibb County Animal Welfare assisted in the investigation.
The agencies are also caring for the rescued animals.
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