22/06/2007

Ten bailed over dog raids

Ten people arrested in a series of dangerous dog raids in Lancashire on Thursday have been released on bail.

Eight men and two women were arrested and four suspected dangerous dogs seized during raids on seven addresses in Accrington.

The raids were carried out by the police and the RSPCA.

Seven addresses in Accrington were raided on Thursday morning as part of a joint investigation into dog fighting in the area, by police and the RSPCA.

More than 40 police officers, including search and entry trained officers, Neighbourhood Policing teams, dog handlers, wildlife officers, detectives and officers from the RSPCA Specialist Operations Unit were involved in the simultaneous raids at properties on Willows Lane, Blackburn Road, Crossland Street, Richmond Street, Steiner Street and two addresses on Monk Street in Accrington.

The dogs have been taken to RSPCA kennels where they will be examined for scars and other injuries.

The dogs are also awaiting classification to see whether they are banned under the 1991 Dangerous Dogs Act. If they are found to be a banned breed, they could be destroyed.

Chief Inspector Mike Butcher from the RSPCA Special Operations Unit said: "Dog-fighting is an abhorrent, cruel activity that was banned in this country over 150 years ago, but still continues today. The RSPCA is determined to give the message that this is not acceptable.

Detective Inspector Pete Simm said that "firm action" would be taken against anyone who was believed to be housing dangerous dogs or breeding them to fight. He said: "I would like to reassure members of the community this is not a widespread problem but an isolated and localised issue.

"Anyone who is concerned that a dangerous dog is being housed or trained in their community should contact the police on: 0845 1 25 35 45 or Crimestoppers anonymously on: 0800 555 111 or the RSPCA on: 0870 5555 999."

(KMcA)


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