On Saturday, the Marlboro County Sheriff’s Office says they rescued more than 120 birds and an emaciated dog, along with her 10 puppies during a massive cockfighting ring bust.
SLED, South Carolina Department of Natural Resources along several humane society agencies helped.
Jennifer Hyduke and Kenny Hinson, both with the Marlboro County Humane Society helped authorities with the rescue.
“It was a big adrenaline rush, but the thing for us was that we were just so excited to be involved because of what was going on,” mentioned Hyduke, President of the Humane Society.
However, the bust has prompted some to ask if the state’s cockfighting laws are tough enough.
In South Carolina cockfighting is only misdemeanor, which is punishable up to a $1,000 fine or a year in jail.
“We are hoping that these bills get passed so they can be charged with a felony,” added Hyduke.
Last year, state lawmakers introduced a bill to crack down on cockfighting.
This year the bill was reintroduced, which would make it a second offense felony and cracking down on possession of cockfighting paraphernalia, game
“It’s the things that go along with it. The gambling, the weapons, the drugs,” explained Hinson
“It’s a vicious cycle and we got to set precedence,” said Hyduke.
Authorities say children were at the cockfight.
The proposed bill has not received a hearing date.
Carolina Waterfowl Rescue does have the rescued birds from the cockfighting ring.
If you would like to donate or adopt the birds along with the dogs here you can call the Marlboro County Humane Society at 843-479-3330 or email at humanesocietyofmarlborocounty@yahoo.com.
You can also contact Carolina Waterfowl Rescue at donations@cwrescue.org or waterfowlrescue@aol.com.
