The Sevier County, Tenn., Sheriff’s Office arrested three people and rescued 50 pit bulls in connection with an investigation into the breeding and selling of animals for illegal dog fighting.
The announcement came after a four-month investigation, launched in conjunction with the U. S Humane Society, into the underground sales of the dogs, according to Sevier County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Mike McCarter, at a news conference Tuesday.
The dogs are in an undisclosed location, according to authorities.
Mark Heatherly, 47, of Sevierville, has been charged with two counts of dog fighting, a Class C felony. Also arrested were his wife Kimberly L. Heatherly, 45, and son, Jacob R. Heatherly, 23, each charged with conspiracy to commit dog fighting.
All three additionally have been charged with possession of marijuana and hydrocodone.
The three were expected to be arraigned in Sevier County General Sessions Court today. No bond has been set.
The investigation is ongoing, according to authorities.
More details as they develop online and in Wednesday’s News Sentinel.
