Aiken Man Faces Multiple Charges for Dogfighting and Animal Cruelty

Aiken Man Arrested for Dogfighting and Animal Cruelty

Aiken, SC – A 22-year-old man named Anthony Ward has been arrested on serious charges related to dogfighting and animal cruelty. The arrest came last week after authorities conducted a search at his home on Colbert Bridge Road. This incident has raised significant concern among local animal welfare advocates and law enforcement.

Details of the Arrest

Officers from Aiken County Animal Control and agents from the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) executed the search warrant at Ward’s residence. During their search, they found a total of twelve dogs on the property. These dogs were taken into custody for their safety and well-being.

Ward now faces multiple charges. He has been charged with animal fighting, criminal conspiracy, two counts of animal mistreatment, and failure to properly bury a dead animal. Currently, he is being held at the Aiken County Detention Center awaiting further legal proceedings.

Previous Legal Issues

This is not Ward’s first encounter with the law. Just a few weeks ago, on August 11, he was involved in another alarming incident where a woman accused him of threatening her with a handgun during a moving situation. Following the incident, Ward fled the scene in a white BMW. A police stop was later conducted, where officers found a firearm that matched the woman’s description hidden under the passenger seat of the car.

As a result of that incident, Ward received additional charges for pointing and presenting a firearm and possession of a stolen gun with the serial number scratched off. Furthermore, Ward had a history of legal troubles that included domestic violence and unlawful carrying of a pistol in the previous year.

Community Reactions

Local residents expressed their horror upon hearing about the situation. Many took to social media to share their concerns and to call for harsher penalties for those involved in animal fighting and abuse. Animal rescue organizations are working to ensure the safety and proper care of the seized dogs and are urging the community to get involved.

Next Steps

As the case against Anthony Ward unfolds, many are watching closely to see how the legal system will handle the charges. The connection between dogfighting and other forms of violence is troubling for communities across the nation, and this case serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing animal cruelty and advocating for stronger animal protection laws.

A court date has yet to be announced for Ward, but it is expected to be scheduled soon. Local law enforcement officials reiterated their commitment to tackling animal cruelty and ensuring that perpetrators are brought to justice.

Conclusion

The incident highlights ongoing challenges related to animal welfare issues in Aiken and beyond. As the community comes together to raise awareness about the importance of protecting animals, the hope is that this case can lead to positive changes in legislation and enforcement in the future.