North Carolina authorities have charged 27 people with a variety of crimes stemming from what investigators
say was a Robeson County dog-fighting ring that drew participants from three other states.
State Alcohol Law Enforcement officers raided a home in Maxton on Saturday during the middle of what they say was a dog fight. State and federal authorities seized 18 dogs, including some with serious wounds, along with tens of thousands of dollars and other paraphernalia.
Most of the suspects tried to flee on foot, but were caught, thanks partly to air support from a National Guard helicopter.
The suspects include people from South Carolina, Maryland and Ohio along with North Carolinians.
The charges they face include dog fighting, animal cruelty, weapons charges and possession of controlled substances.