Is Illegal Dog Fighting Making a Comeback in Maricopa?

Concerns are rising in Maricopa over the potential presence of an underground dog fighting ring. Reports indicate that some stray dogs in the area are taken to a shelter, while others are suspected of being trafficked for illegal fighting.

Desi Remmie, a local resident and animal advocate, claims that a couple operating just outside the city limits is behind this illicit activity. Remmie and a friend reportedly witnessed the couple’s operation firsthand after being invited to a dog fighting event in October.

“They train their fighting dogs at a property near Teel and Thunderbird Roads in Hidden Valley,” Remmie stated. “They often use bait dogs obtained for free, including strays and pets offered by owners.” She detailed the couple’s methods, noting that the bait dogs typically serve a grim fate, becoming food for the more aggressive breeds.

Remmie claims these events include not just dog fights but also cockfights. Despite her alarming revelations, spokesperson Lauren Reimer from the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office could not confirm ongoing investigations related to dog fighting, urging the community to provide any evidence that could help.

Another resident, Rita Rou, also reported suspicions of dog fighting following a disturbing encounter at Fry’s Marketplace. She observed a man with two dogs—one significantly injured and believed to be used as a bait dog—who was seen treating the dogs with what looked like peroxide.

Rou connected the man to a white GMC Sierra truck registered in California, which was later implicated in another incident where a dog was injured. January Harrison, who witnessed the same truck being used to abuse a small dog, took action to rescue the animal, which she named Phoenix Blue.

After taking the injured dog to a local veterinarian who treated him pro bono, Harrison launched a fundraising campaign to gather rewards for information leading to the arrest of those involved in the suspected dog fighting ring. This effort has yielded nearly $2,000 as of now.

“Tips from local citizens and veterinarians have started coming in, pointing towards the same man and truck,” she shared. Harrison has submitted all relevant information to both Maricopa Police and Animal Control for further investigation.

The Maricopa Police Department stated they take reports of animal cruelty seriously and continue to investigate the situation. While officials emphasized that no organized illegal dog fighting has been proved in the city, they encourage residents to report suspicious activities.

Audra Michael, director of Pinal County Animal Care and Control, noted that while they hadn’t recently received reports of dog fighting, it doesn’t mean it isn’t happening. She recalled a past case involving a pit-bull mix, Elliot, who showed signs of abuse indicative of involvement in dog fighting, yet no one was ever convicted in that instance.

This is not the first time such accusations have surfaced in Maricopa. In 2008, authorities uncovered a similar operation run by a man named Damien Hartfield, leading to the rescue of multiple dogs and the discovery of evidence linking him to dog fighting.

Residents like Remmie, Harrison, and Rou are uniting in their call for action, hoping to motivate others to come forward and shed light on what they describe as a hidden and tragic reality in their community. “Bringing awareness to these brutal practices is crucial,” Remmie remarked. “We need to stop this horror and ensure those responsible are held accountable.”