Berkeley County, South Carolina — Deputies apprehended a guy on Tuesday after a concerned citizen alerted them to an alleged dogfighting business in Berkeley County.
The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office said it received a tip in July about potential dogfighting activity at a home on Reese Court in Goose Creek.
The office initiated an investigation, which included a drone operation and several search warrants issued at the residence.
During the search, deputies discovered over 50 canines living in “deplorable conditions,” several of which had scars consistent with dogfighting.
Investigators discovered dogfighting equipment, including a treadmill, drugs, vitamins, and a breeding stand.
Furthermore, when investigating the property, investigators uncovered around 118 pounds of marijuana, 4.5 grams of crack, 7.8 grams of cocaine, three stolen guns, four firearms, 36 pills of a scheduled narcotic, and approximately $3,842 in cash. They also confiscated a 2021 RAM-Diesel Cummins truck as part of their inquiry.
Quentin Roderick Reid, 42, of Reese Court, was charged with 50 counts of violating the rabies control chapter and 49 counts of animal cruelty with torture. He is still in detention at the Hill-Finklea Detention Center.
Reid is charged with trafficking marijuana in excess of 100 pounds, possession with intent to distribute cocaine and crack, three counts of possession of a stolen firearm, and six counts of possession of a weapon while committing a violent crime.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) helped law enforcement with rescue attempts. According to the charity, four dogs required emergency veterinary care, while others suffered from dehydration, malnutrition, and untreated medical issues.
“When we arrived on the property, it was clear that immediate action was required to remove these dogs from the inhumane conditions in which they were living so that we could provide them with much-needed care,” said Teresa Ladner, senior director of investigations for the ASPCA.
For the time being, the dogs are being cared for at an ASPCA rehabilitation center, where they will receive veterinary exams, medical treatment, and behavioral support.
“Animal cruelty will not be tolerated in Berkeley County,” stated Sheriff Duane Lewis. “The conditions we uncovered were appalling, but a swift start to the investigation enabled deputies to save the animals and bring the perpetrator to justice. This case serves as a warning that any form of cruelty has no place in our community, and those culpable will face consequences.”
