Images of two of the pit bulls that were taken.
Raven Lamar Perry (Image: Richland County Detention Center)
Dezmond Jones
Columbia, SC (WLTX) - Columbia police have arrested two suspects and are searching for two more in connection with a series of pit bull thefts from the Columbia Animal Shelter.
Police updated their investigation Monday afternoon at a news conference. They revealed that 17-year-old Raven Lamar Perry and a 13-year-old have been taken into custody, and they're trying to find 25-year-old Dezmon Javaris Jones and another 13-year-old.
Investigators say around 9 p.m. Sunday night, the suspects attempted to break into the animal shelter and take more pit bulls. The shelter has had three separate thefts of animals in the last weeks, the most recent of which was Saturday.
After police got the two in custody, they say information led them to a home in Bamberg County where they found 17 dogs. The animals are being examined, but it appears they have only minor injuries.
At a press conference Monday, Columbia Police Chief Randy Scott, said they are investigating the case as a possible dogfighting ring, and spoke about the illegal practice in a general sense.
"It is my understanding and my knowledge from being in law enforcement," explained Scott, "[dog fighters] are involved with narcotics, they are involved with gambling, they are involved with drugs a lot of the time. Clearly they involve these animals, unfortunately, in fighting. And thats why we had to really fight to get these dogs back."
Investigators also say the men have no connection to the animal shelter.
Anyone with information on the other two suspects should call Crimestoppers at 1-888-CRIME-SC, or e-mail a tip in to Crimestoppers of the Midlands. You can also text information in by texting "TIPSC" plus your message to CRIMES (274637). Either way you choose, your identity will remain anonymous, and you could be eligible for a cash reward.