Three adults and one juvenile were arrested in Tuscaloosa this morning for Aggravated Cruelty to Animals among other charges.

The press release from the Tuscaloosa County Sheriff's Office reads:

October 29, 2013 at approximately 8:00 pm deputies responded to the area of Maxwell Loop Road North on a report of dog fighting. Deputies responded to the scene and detained several subjects. Two pit bull dogs were also found at the scene. Both dogs were injured which were consistent with injuries sustained from dog fighting. One of the dogs was severely injured and deputies administered first aid to the dog until animal control arrived and transported both dogs to an emergency veterinarian clinic. Based on the investigation all three were charged with two counts of aggravated cruelty to animals and dog fighting. First Aid including attempting to start an I V on the injured dog was performed by a Deputy that is an EMT. Chief Abernathy stated this is one of the reasons we started our Paramedic/EMT program for instances like this. The actions of this Deputy very well may have saved this dog’s life.

1. Rashad Jones, 21 year old black male black male, DOB: 7/3/1992 of Moundville, Alabama
He was arrested for 2 counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, one count of Dog Fighting and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana II. He is currently being held on bonds totaling $36,000.00.

2. Xavier Long, 23 year old black male, DOB: 7/10/1990 of Tuscaloosa, AL.
He was arrested for 2 counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and one count of Dog Fighting. He is currently being held on bonds totaling $30,000.00.

3. Leonard Hines, 22 year old black male, DOB: 9/28/1991 of Tuscaloosa, AL
He was arrested for 2 counts of Aggravated Cruelty to Animals and one count of Dog Fighting. He is currently being held on bonds totaling $30,000.00.

4. One juvenile was also arrested and is being charged with two counts of aggravated animal cruelty and one count of dog fighting. The juvenile was released to a parent on an appearance agreement pending their juvenile court hearing.

One dog was transported to the Animal Shelter pending a court hearing to determine the disposition of the dog. The other dog was transported to a local veterinarian for further medical treatment due to the severity of its injuries. Chief Abernathy stated since the owner of this dog cannot be determined at this time, it is being classified as abandoned and the Sheriff’s Office is paying for the medical costs for treatment and recovery of the dog. Chief Abernathy went on to say The Tuscaloosa has and continues to demonstrate a ZERO TOLERANCE for Animal Cruelty and Dog Fighting and we will make sure these and any defendants are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

Chief Abernathy advised the investigation is continuing and the Sheriff’s Office is aware other individuals were involved in this incident. More arrests are expected.

UPDATE: The injured Pit Bull is on pain meds and his wounds are being treated. He is resting and will continue treatment.

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