Check out our latest products
22 Dogs Rescued from Suspected Dog Fighting Ring in Indiana
In a powerful display of teamwork and compassion, 22 dogs and puppies were rescued from a suspected dog fighting ring during a coordinated raid led by the Fort Wayne Police Department and Humane World for Animals. The operation, which took place Tuesday, targeted three separate properties across Fort Wayne, Indiana, and resulted in the arrest of one suspect.
Search warrants were served at homes on Buell Drive, E. Berry Street, and Bridlewood, where officers uncovered disturbing conditions. Inside sheds and cages, dogs were found suffering from injuries, dehydration, and extreme neglect. Many of the dogs were confined in filthy, overheated environments with no access to clean water or shelter from the scorching 110-degree temperatures.
Authorities reported finding dog fighting paraphernalia, further suggesting the properties were being used as part of an active dog fighting operation. Tragically, some dogs bore physical evidence of prior fights, including scars, open wounds, and signs of malnutrition.
Samantha Chapman, Indiana state director for Humane World for Animals, shared the emotional toll of the rescue. “These dogs were enduring some of the worst conditions imaginable—filth, extreme heat, untreated wounds. And yet, they still greeted us with wagging tails. That’s the kind of resilience that breaks your heart and gives you hope at the same time.”
Among the rescued animals, many were found in especially heartbreaking situations. Some were chained outside in direct sun with no shade, while others suffered from flystrike—a painful affliction caused by flies laying eggs on their exposed skin. The intense heat only added to their suffering.
Police arrested Trevel Shantae Bell at one of the properties. He faces two felony charges related to the possession and intent to use animals for fighting. Investigators believe the dog fighting ring may be connected to other illegal activities, such as drugs, gambling, and firearms, which are often intertwined with animal cruelty cases.
All rescued dogs are now being cared for at a safe, undisclosed location under the supervision of Humane World for Animals. They will receive full medical treatment, rest, and rehabilitation with the goal of eventual adoption into loving homes.
The investigation remains active, and law enforcement officials urge the public to report any suspicions of animal abuse. This rescue serves as a powerful reminder that vigilance and community action can break cycles of cruelty and give innocent animals a second chance at a better life.
Click the video below to watch the full story:
Click ‘SHARE’ below to pass it on to a friend or family member!
This content was created with AI assistance and edited by the iHeartDogs team.
![[5G & 2.4G] 2K Indoor Security Camera for Home Security, AI Voice Change for 2-Way Talk, Motion Detection, Night Vision, 24/7 SD Recording/Cloud Storage, WiFi Home Camera, Pet Cam with Phone App](https://i3.wp.com/m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61I2U+sTT3L._AC_SL1500_.jpg?w=300&resize=300,300&ssl=1)
