CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, S.C.,None — The State Law Enforcement Division is investigating the shooting deaths of six dogs because South Carolina's attorney general doesn't think Chesterfield County's internal investigation went far enough.
The dogs were found almost a month ago in a landfill where euthanized animals are dumped. They had been shot in the head.
SLED agents must conduct official interviews with four animal control officers, asking if they participated or directed anyone to participate in the unlawful shooting of dogs.
The agents will also look into reports of dog-fighting-related activities at the shelter.
Whitney Knowlton, who leads an animal rescue group in New York and has worked closely with the Chesterfield County shelter over the past few years, responded to the dog fighting allegations in the letter.
"I've heard firsthand accounts of people actually witnessing dog fighting going on at the shelter, so I wasn't surprised at all," Knowlton said. "Certainly, there's plenty of information out there if they want to start asking the right questions."
The Chesterfield County sheriff declined to comment on the investigation Thursday. The sheriff's deputies are now running the shelter. The four shelter employees involved in the case are still on administrative leave.
Once the investigation is over, the attorney general's office will decide if anyone will face criminal charges.
Knowlton said she and other animal advocates will attend the Chesterfield County Council meeting on April 6 to demand answers. It will be the first time the council has met since the shootings.
Previous Stories: March 7, 2011: Dog Shootings Spark Widespread Anger March 7, 2011: Animal Advocate Outraged By Dog Shootings March 5, 2011: State Law: Animal Shootings At Landfill May Be Legal March 4, 2011: Animal Rescuer Arrives To Look Into Report Of Dogs Shot At Landfill March 4, 2011: Sheriff's Office Investigates After Dead Dogs Found
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