BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a Cane Bay couple accused of running a dog‑fighting operation out of their home after deputies discovered 15 dogs living in severe neglect.
Deputies were called to a residence on Bering Lane in the Meridian neighborhood on April 29 after reports of a foul odor coming from the home. When they arrived, conditions inside prompted investigators to obtain a search warrant.
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Once inside, deputies found 15 dogs confined in crates without access to water. The crates were filled with urine and feces, according to the sheriff’s office.
Berkeley County Animal Control removed all of the dogs from the property.
READ MORE l Cane Bay Couple Arrested After Tip Leads Deputies to Suspects in Dog‑Fighting Investigation
As the investigation continued, deputies uncovered evidence indicating that the animals were being used for dogfighting.
Warrants have been issued for Anthony Juedell Banks, 48, and Nicole Lasean Boyd, 46. Both are wanted on six charges related to dog fighting and animal cruelty.
Dogfighting is classified as a felony in South Carolina under the Animal Fighting and Baiting Act.
Penalties can include fines of up to $5,000 or up to 5 years in prison, or both.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Banks or Boyd is asked to contact Berkeley County Dispatch at (843) 719‑4505 or submit a tip online.
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