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Another Alleged Dogfighter Shot, Cocaine and Pit Bulls Seized

Pit Bull Owner Shot and Arrested
Vineland, NJ - It was reported today that a cocaine dealer and pit bull owner was shot at his home. Police said they found four pit bulls and cocaine at the location where they found Leslie H. Mitchell, 40, bleeding from the hand and leg. They also seized several vehicles found on the property. As of last week, no suspects had been identified.

The victim told police he was "playing with his dogs" in his backyard when two unknown men shot him. Detective Lt. Tom Ulrich said Mitchell was likely targeted in the shooting. After executing a search warrant, police arrested Mitchell and his girlfriend, Dorothy Shockley. Both are being charged with first-degree drug possession and distribution of cocaine.

According to Ulrich, Mitchell had a previous charge for dogfighting. Bev Greco, executive director at the Cumberland County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, said they are also investigating "possible dogfighting charges." The pit bulls, between ages 4 and 10, are currently in the SPCA's custody. What will eventually become of the dogs is unknown.

In other news:

Pit Bull and Walker Shot in Drive-By Shooting
Riverside, CA - On the other side of the country, a gunman fatally shot a pit bull and wounded the two men walking the dog. According to Riverside police Sgt. Jaybee Brennan, as the victims walked the dog, a vehicle slowed and the passenger leaned out and fired. One person was shot in the pelvis and the other was shot in the hand and lower back. They were taken to a Riverside hospital. 

Suspected Detroit Dogfighter Nabbed by Police
Detroit, MI - Police spotted a man walking down Mt. Vernon -- who was not being shot at -- with an injured dog. When police tried to interview him, he ran into a house. Police entered the home and found a number of dogs, some of them hurt. People that tried to leave the scene were detained by police. A search of the home also turned up marijuana and a hand gun. 

Seven persons are in now in custody in what looks to be a dogfighting ring.  

Related articles:
10/08/08: Shooting of Alleged Dogfighter Surprises Family and Friends
07/21/08: Continuous Crime Wave: Pit Bull Owners and Their Dogs