Illegal Animal Fighting Investigations     Printer Friendly   e-mail this page   In recent years, we have seen an increase in animal fighting both in urban settings and rural areas across the United States.   Often, these groups of underground fighting networks stretch across state lines, and reach past animal cruelty alone involving many other criminal offenses such as gambling, drugs, and firearms.    To overcome this increase in activity, The Humane Society of the United States has worked closely with experts devoted to combating illegal animal fighting practices to create a day-long course which provides valuable training to law enforcement, criminal justice, and animal protection professionals.   Our instructors are well-seasoned, highly experienced, and dedicated individuals who will provide a wealth of information to help you win the war against illegal animal fighting in your community.    Participants will learn the history, motivations, and paraphernalia involved in illegal animal fighting as well as how to conduct interrogations when illegal animal fighting is suspected.   COURSE TOPICS History of animal fighting Instruction on the categories of animal fighting Review of animal fighting paraphernalia Matters concerning search warrants, performing investigations, and recognizing and logging evidence at an arrest or raid Disposition of confiscated animals Dealing with the media Preparing a case for court Recognizing street fighting and the best means for making an arrest Animal fighting connection to other felony crimes Knowing, interpreting, and applying the law Internet investigation of animal fighting Who Should Attend? Law Enforcement Officers Prosecutors and Judges Animal Control Officers Humane Investigators Animal Shelter Veterinarians     Due to the confidential nature of the material presented in the class, enrollment is restricted to law enforcement officers; prosecutors and judges; and animal control officers, humane investigators, and veterinarians if employed or contracted with a government agency (sheriff's, police, or health department, etc.).   Instructors Each training may be taught by one or more of the following instructors.  More information is available upon request. John Goodwin, Manager, Animal Fighting Issues The Humane Society of the United States Sergeant David R. Hunt, Special Investigations Unit Franklin County Sheriff's Office, Columbus, Ohio Tuition Regular Registration - $50 - $75* *tuition may vary due to local sponsorship, class sizes, or location  View upcoming Illegal Animal Fighting Investigation Workshops   Don't see a training near you?  Check out our hosting opportunities.  Download the hosting information packet and training request form for this training. For more information about HSUS' fight against animal cruelty and fighting, visit the Animal Cruelty and Fighting Campaign page.   Receive news, training updates, and more.