2 suspects arrested, 5 dogs rescued from alleged dog-fighting operation in Seattle

SEATTLE -- Police said Tuesday they have arrested two suspects on multiple charges surrounding a dog-fighting operation in south Seattle.

Police said the case began with the Seattle Animal Shelter investigating neighbors' complaints of dogs tied up and barking in the 4200 block of South Kenney Street. A Seattle Humane Animal officer noticed scars covering one dog's face.

At that point, the Washington State Gambling Commission joined the investigation. Officers found the suspect's website describing their pit bulls having the bloodlines of famous fighting dogs and offering the dogs for sale.

"Undercover officers set up a meeting with the suspects at a local grocery store to purchase a dog for the intended purpose of illegal animal fighting," the Seattle Police Department said on its crime blotter. "The male suspect showed photos and a video of his dogs fighting on his phone to the undercover officer to encourage the sale."

The man was arrested last Thursday, police said, and search warrants were served on his home, vehicle, trailer and his mother's home.

Seattle’s Humane Animal officers rescued 5 dogs "kept in deplorable conditions," SPD said, adding that police officers seized four firearms, illegal dog-fighting training devices, and $26,000 in cash.

The suspect is a 30-year-old felon who had two active warrants fro his arrest from 2008 Seattle cases. His 35-year-old girlfriend was also arrested for her alleged part in the operation, SPD said.

They were both booked into the King County Jail on charges of animal cruelty, animal fighting, and professional gambling. The man was also booked on charge of illegal possession of firearms.