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Nearly 600 animals were rescued this week in two Indiana properties, where their owners were suspected of running a dog and wedding rings.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) said in a press release Thursday that 550 roosters and nine pit bulls had been rescued from a location in Owen County, while another dog had been rescued at another resident of Indiana in the county over.
At least one person has been arrested as part of the investigation into animal fighting, according to a local Fox affiliate.
Superintendent Rob Townsend of the Indiana Gaming Commission said in a statement that the investigation had begun on a tip from the state's Crime Stoppers phone line. ASPCA said that state officials were associated with several local animal rights groups during the investigation.
"There is no place in Indiana's communities for animal fighting and illegal gambling, and we are very pleased to have been able to put an end to this operation," said Townsend.
"This investigation began with a message from a citizen concerned about Crime Stoppers, and by raising awareness about this type of activity, we are seeing an increase in public information allowing us to better fight against cruelty to people." animals in our communities, "he added.
Animal welfare advocates said several dogs were found chained, suggesting abuse and involvement in dogfights. Many cocks rescued by state officials have been found with "physical modifications" that, according to experts, were consistent with cockfighting.
"Animal fighting is one of the most heinous forms of animal cruelty and unfortunately it is far more prevalent in the United States than many people realize," said ASPCA spokeswoman , Jessica Rushin, in a statement.
"Betraying animals by forcing them to fight for their lives for so-called entertainment is despicable. We are proud to work alongside the Indiana Gaming Commission to remove these dogs and birds from pain and suffering and empower the people involved, "she added.
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