A 36-year-old Lawncrest man was changed May 11 with 15 counts of animal cruelty, according to the Pennsylvania SPCA.
The SPCA’s Humane Law Enforcements officers rescued five dogs and arrested Antoine Talley in conjunction with a suspected dog- fighting operation on the 300 block of Van Kirk Street.
According to the SPCA, after obtaining a search warrant, officers discovered the animals — four male and one female pitbull-type dogs — living in unsanitary conditions. Three dogs, including one emaciated male dog, were living in filthy conditions in the back yard. After searching the house, officers discovered one dog running loose and another in a crate in the basement. All of the dogs had scarring and old injuries consistent with dog fighting.
Talley is the owner of the dogs, the SPCA stated. He is facing a felony animal fighting charge. In 2000, Talley was charged with attending a dog fight, a felony offense, according to the SPCA.
The SPCA said its officers also recovered a suspected fighting ring and other paraphernalia associated with dog fighting, including medical and surgical equipment, training equipment, DVDs and books and records.
All of the dogs are currently being held in protective custody at the Pennsylvania SPCA where they are receiving medical care. ••
