End Georgia Dog Fighting

New GA Law Continues to Crack Down on Dog Fighting

scratchtopaz — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 01:44:12 GMT

Best Friends provides additional public education and officer training

By Cheri Moon, Best Friends staff

Before 2008, only one person had been incarcerated for dog fighting in Georgia. Considering the state had one of the weakest dog-fighting laws in the nation, that's no compliment.

But since a new and tougher dog fighting law was passed in May 2008, multiple arrests have been made, with more on the horizon.

Most Recent Arrest in Floyd County
Dominique Ladell Porter of Floyd County, GA is the most recent criminal to add his name to the growing roster of dog fighting arrests. Porter has been charged with six felony counts of dog fighting and six misdemeanor counts of animal cruelty.

Animal control inspected Porter's property after they were alerted to the situation by an investigator for the Humane Society. Officers confiscated six American pit bull terriers in late December because the dogs were emaciated, in very poor health and exhibited scarring and injuries consistent with dogs that have been used for fighting. Animal control then contacted the Floyd county police department who investigated the case and found sufficient evidence to make an arrest.

Law Targets Dog-Fighting Lifestyle
Georgia's new dog fighting law makes it a felony to train, transport, sell or own a fighting dog, or to advertise, promote or bet on fights. A first conviction means one to five years in prison, a fine of at least $5,000, or both. The law also makes attending a dog fight a high and aggravated misdemeanor on the first offense, a felony on subsequent ones.

These new standards make Georgia a role model in the plight against organized dog-fighting. In addition to stricter consequences, a key component of the new law is that it targets the people whose lifestyles often include organizing or attending dog fights.

Best Friends worked closely with State Senator Chip Rogers since 2004 to see this law enacted. The team wanted the law to target not only fighting-dog owners, but anyone who participated in any aspect of dog fighting.

Best Friends worked diligently to garner the support of Georgia residents for the new and tougher law. The "End GA Dog Fighting Campaign" utilized petitions, member messages and even a <a href=" http://network.bestfriends.org/georgiadogfightingbill/news/21195.html"; target="_blank">PSA featuring Willie Nelson</a> to educate the public about dog fighting and the need for tougher laws.

Continuing Public Education and Officer Training
Says Best Friends employee Nikki Sharp, "Even though we worked tirelessly to see this bill come to fruition, our work is far from over. You can't just pass a law, then step away from it."

Best Friends continues to support Georgia's new law through education campaigns that inform residents about the law and it's more stringent penalties. In addition, Best Friends is training judges, prosecutors and enforcement officers on how to effectively implement the law.

The Humane Society of the United States is aiding in the crack down of dog fighting across the nation by offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in animal fighting.

Unknown Future For GA Confiscated Dogs
The six dogs taken from the Porter property are being held at Floyd county animal control and have received treatment for their wounds and health problems. The future for these dogs is yet to be determined by local officials.

Says Sharp, "Because of dog fighting, people have a negative image of pit bulls. Pit bulls and bully breeds are filling shelters across the nation—where most of them are euthanized. That needs to stop." She adds, "Cracking down on dog fighting is a vital step in saving thousands of innocent dogs."

You Can Make A Difference!
You can help end breed discrimination by aiding in the battle against dog fighting.

Report dog fighting or your suspicions to the Humane Society of the United States’ toll-free tip line at 877-847-4787.

Keep your community safe with <a href=" http://network.bestfriends.org/georgiadogfightingbill/news/27602.html"; target="_blank">10 things to do if you suspect dog fighting</a>.

Join the Best Friends Network and visit the <a href=" http://network.bestfriends.org/stopbsl/news"; target="_blank">Stop Breed Specific Legislation</a> and <a href=" http://network.bestfriends.org/georgiadogfightingbill/news/"; target="_blank">End Georgia Dog Fighting campaigns</a>.

photo of friendly pit bull type dog, not affiliated with the case by Clay Myers, Best Friends photographer

How to Help Keep Your Community Safe!

scratchtopaz — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 02:06:42 GMT

Easy ways to make a difference in your neighborhood.

10 ThingsTo Do If You Suspect Dog Fighting

1. Contact the police or your local animal control officer. Provide as much information as you can without putting yourself in danger. In other words, don’t try to investigate; that’s what the police do. Simply report the date and time you noticed something wrong, the address or location, and what led you to believe there was dog fighting going on – for instance, an unusually high number of cars nearby (write down license plate numbers if they’re easily visible from a safe location), sounds of violence or crowd noises (as if at a sporting event).

2. Call the Humane Society of the United States’ toll-free tip line at:
(877) 847-4787 to report your suspicion.

3. Report abandoned buildings to your local housing authority or the police. In urban areas, they are often used for dog fighting.

4. Protect your pets. Dog fighters sometimes steal them to use as bait dogs. Don’t let yours outside without supervision, and make sure they have proper identification tags and are microchipped. Report pet theft in your area.

5. Alert the media! Your local newspaper and television station are always looking for stories, especially investigative ones – or ones about public officials not responding to citizens’ concerns. You don’t have to give them your name. Also encourage local media to air public service announcements on dog fighting.

6. Be persistent. Keep reporting your suspicion until you’re satisfied that it’s been checked out. It’s okay to make a nuisance of yourself if it means shutting down a dog-fighting operation.

7. Start a community watch group.

8. Support stronger laws. Contact your state representative or senator about tougher dog-fighting legislation at the state level, or talk to your city council and mayor about enacting a local anti-tethering ordinance.

9. Provide positive reinforcement to police and prosecutors who bring down dog fighters. Let them know you appreciate their efforts with an email, a call, a letter to the editor or a handshake.

10. Remember that you have something all elected officials want – your vote.

Resources
Join the Best Friends Network and visit communities that focus on it, such as the Stop Breed Specific Legislation and End Georgia Dog Fighting.

Get involved with Pit Bull Awareness Day 2008 in your community.

The Petabuse.com database allows you to check to see whether a person has prior animal-related offenses.

Learn how to start a Community Watch Program in your neighborhood: Click here

Check out The Link: Animal Abuse and Violence.

by Best Friends Campaigns Team
posted by Denise LeBeau, Best Friends staff

Hardcore Encore

mikiri — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:30:33 GMT

Georgia officials have raided another dog-fighting operation and charged the owner –allegedly an influential figure in the blood sport – with 22 felony counts.

For the rest of the article, please see the Georgia community.

Posted by Michael Rinker, Best Friends staff

First of Many?

mikiri — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 19:21:05 GMT

Johnny Stewart Johnson Jr. has the dubious distinction of being the first person arrested under Georgia’s new dog-fighting law.

For the rest of the article, please see the Georgia community.

Photo by Molly Wald, Best Friends staff

Posted by Michael Rinker, Best Friends staff

Anti-Dog Fighting Bill Becomes Law!

scratchtopaz — Wed, 07 May 2008 03:39:37 GMT

Governor Sonny Perdue signs HB 301

Best Friends has worked closely with State Sen. Chip Rogers since 2004 to see this law through to the end! HB 301 will not only make law enforcement officers better equipped to crack down on dog fighting, but there will be stiffer penalties all the way around – from transporting and training dogs affiliated with fighting - to even being present at a dog fight is a strict punishable offense.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Best Friends Animal Society for all their work behind the scenes when we were first crafting this legislation,” Senator Rogers said. “Without the help of Best Friends, our task of taking this legislation from a bill to the governor’s desk would have been much more difficult.”

Best Friends was not only behind the scenes working to get this on the books with the state’s officials, but worked indefatigably to help spread the word with the GA End Dog Fighting Campaign. From petitions, Member messages and a PSA produced by us with Willie Nelson, (click here to view) there was nothing Best Friends wasn’t willing to do to get the citizens of Georgia to support this law!

It seems unanimous that everyone associated with this Anti-Dog Fighting Law that the main focus is to stop the torture of man’s best friend! The news is also peppered with sentiments that if it weren’t for Michael Vick, this law may have not gone the distance. The appalling and brutal treatment levied against the dogs on his property gave the nation a first hand look at the reality of dog fighting and that horrifying world. If something good could come of that – like this law and the ability for the Vicktory Dogs to go into rehabilitation, it seems that a new day full of hope is dawning! Best Friends continues to fight the good fight on behalf of animals abused, neglected and abandoned across the country by any means necessary! Click here to show your support!

How You Can Help
The story of the Anti-Dog Fighting Law is taking off! Check out the latest stories and don’t forget to send letters to the editor, make comments where ever possible and tell your friends to voice their support of HB 301 and the officials of GA!

WRCB Channel 3 Chattanooga News
News Channel WJBF
Insider Advantage Georgia

How does your state's cruelty laws compare? You can look them up by clicking here.

Disappointed or like what you see? Contact your elected officials!

by Denise LeBeau, Best Friends staff
image of a Best Friends adoptable rescue dog by Clay Myers, Best Friends
image of Gov. Perdue signing bill into law, courtesy of InsiderAdvantage Georgia

Georgia Dog Fighting Bill Almost a Reality

Jon_Dunn — Fri, 28 Mar 2008 20:45:47 GMT

One more hurdle cleared, now just Governor’s signature is only thing needed

By Jon Dunn, Best Friends Staff

There was never a question that the bill would pass in the Senate. For four years, Senators in Georgia have unanimously supported measures to toughen the dog fighting law. The question has always been from the House side.

This year however, House members also realized how gruesome the bloodsport of dog fighting really is. Especially after they watched their beloved Atlanta Falcons Quarterback, Michael Vick, embroiled in the most widely publicized animal fighting case in history.

Two weeks ago, the bill hit a snag. An amendment that would require seized dog fighting dogs to be fixed had some legal questions causing the bill to stop in its tracks. The amendment was removed however, flinging the bill back to the Senate for final passage. It passed Friday, 44-0.

The bill now goes to Governor Sonny Purdue. The Governor has not publicly commented on the legislation, or whether he will sign it, but he has been vocal about the actions of Michael Vick. Purdue called those crimes, “heinous.”

A provision in the bill would allow the bill to immediately become law as soon as the Governor puts his signature to the paper.

Senate Passes Bill to Crack Down on Dog Fighting

scratchtopaz — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 02:12:17 GMT

HB 301 Passes Senate!!!

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution brings in the news!

The Bill is on its way to becoming a law - as soon as Govenor Purdue signs it!

Last Chance to Sign the Petition!

Jon_Dunn — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 23:50:14 GMT

Currently, the Georgia Dog Fighting Bill is in limbo. It has passed the House, but is still waiting for the Senate to act.

We need your help! If you have not signed the petition, please do so now! Maybe you thought of some long lost family in Georgia you need to forward it to? Do it today, because time is running out!

We will be compiling the list very soon, and printing the results to give to lawmakers in the Senate. This is a very powerful way to show them just how many Georgians (and those especially in their districts) want to see this kind of law passed.

To sign, please follow this link...

As always, we please ask that you take full advantage of the forwarding feature built in to our petitions. The word of mouth, viral nature of a campaign like this can mean the difference between 3,000 signatures, and 10,000!

The Case for a Felony

Jon_Dunn — Wed, 20 Feb 2008 23:10:13 GMT

Suspected dog fighter in Atlanta accused of other more serious crimes often linked to the cruel world of dog fighting.

By Jon Dunn, Best Friends Staff

As lawmakers in Georgia continue to grapple with the decisions over a tougher law for dog fighting, one of the major sticking points is still the first time felony spectator option. While many lawmakers agree with giving prosecutors the option to throw the book at hardened criminals who choose to fight dogs, many don’t agree with the possibility of a first time felony for a spectator at a dog fight.

Take the case of Ossia Phillips in Atlanta. In March of last year, Ossia and two friends kidnapped a man at gunpoint. They tied up the man’s wrists and ankles, and held him hostage. It was revealed in court that Ossia held a gun at the man’s head for hours. All because prosecutors say the men wanted $50.

Phillips was let out on bond on the charges related to the kidnapping. Then, just this last December he was in trouble again. Ossia said his life had taken a new turn, and he was keeping himself clean. But what investigators found at his home in Southwest Atlanta paints a very different story.

A sawed off shotgun was found, along with drugs and a dog fighting ring with bleachers. Dead dogs were found around the property. 15 alive, but badly scarred pit bulls were also found.

This is sadly an all too familiar scene. Investigators say dog fighting does go hand in hand with some of the worst crimes in our communities. The “arenas” are breeding grounds, not only for fighting dogs, but also drugs and crime. Often gang related, these fighters don’t dog fight just for fun, they do it for money. Large amounts of money can change hands in underground gambling.

Ossia Phillips is a career criminal, with an extensive rap sheet for drug and gun violations. The record has shown that this is not an unusual background for someone involved in dog fighting.

The fight for the proposed new anti dog fighting law is still taking place inside the halls of the Georgia State Capitol. The bill currently is in a holding pattern as other bills are being discussed and voted on. Please see below on how you can get involved to make sure those involved in dog fighting are punished to the fullest extent.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Join this campaign!

Staying in touch with the latest developments is an enormous part of this campaign. Politics changes everyday so please stay informed by joining the Network by clicking here! Once you are a member, please join this community by clicking on the “join this community” link on the right side of the page. You can choose to be alerted any time a new story is posted. That is the best way to stay informed!

Sign the Petition!

For those of you in GEORGIA ONLY, please take the time to sign our petition. The results will be delivered to lawmakers. Showing a strong amount of support is the best way to let lawmakers know how important this bill is. Again, we ask that only residents of Georgia sign this petition please.

Contact your lawmakers!

Please make sure you contact your Georgia lawmakers. Letting them know that there are people in their respective districts that support the legislation is the best way to let them know that they need to vote for the bill!

Please use the following link to find out who your lawmakers are (use the zip +4 search box on the left), and then look under the resources tab above to find a sample letter that you are more than welcome to use as a template. Again, a show of force is so important in a political campaign, so make sure to tell your friends to e-mail their representatives too!

Dog Fighting Bill Passes House Overwhelmingly

Jon_Dunn — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 18:06:19 GMT

Changes may still need to be made to the language once bill moves over to the Senate, but passage through the House is another big hurdle cleared

By Jon Dunn, Best Friends Animal Society

In a 165-6 vote, Georgia’s House of Representatives agreed that dog fighting does not have safe harbor in their state. H.B. 301 has moved swiftly since the session began, first passing the house committee, then through the rules committee, and then almost before anyone noticed the bill hit the floor and was voted on and passed!

This version is still the H.B. 301 that has been sponsored by Rep. Bobby Reese (R-Sugar Hill). For those that choose to watch a dog fight, and are caught, this bill would not charge them with a felony but instead a high and aggravated misdemeanor. While this is not the desire of many, most seem to be accepting of the bill’s language in terms of the spectatorship. A couple of other provisions may need to be re-worked, and Sen. Chip Rogers (R-Woodstock) says he will work with his colleagues on those changes.

So who voted against the bill? Rep. David Lucas (D-Macon) was one of the six who decided that stronger dog fighting laws were not necessary. He claimed that the activity of dog fighting is so deep rooted in many black communities that the proposed penalties would just be excessive. "We've got over 60,000 people in the corrections system now," Lucas said. "I think we take things too far sometimes."

Thankfully the majority of lawmakers did not vote like Rep. Lucas and the bill is now in the hands of the Senate. If all goes well, the Governor’s signature could make the penalties fit the crime before spring.

The six lawmakers who voted no on the bill are as follows:

Alisha Morgan, 39th District
Bobby Franklin, 43rd District
Gloria Frazier, 123rd District
Barry Loudermilk, 14th District
David Lucas, 139th District
Georganna Sinkfield, 60th District

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Join this campaign!

Staying in touch with the latest developments is an enormous part of this campaign. Politics changes everyday so please stay informed by joining the Network by clicking here! Once you are a member, please join this community by clicking on the, “join this community” link on the right side of the page. You can choose to be alerted any time a new story is posted. That is the best way to stay informed!

Sign the Petition!

For those of you in GEORGIA ONLY, please take the time to sign our petition. The results will be delivered to lawmakers. Showing a strong amount of support is the best way to let lawmakers know how important this bill is. Again, we ask that only residents of Georgia sign this petition please.

Contact your lawmakers!

Please make sure you contact your Georgia lawmakers. Letting them know that there are people in their respective districts that support the legislation is the best way to let them know that they need to vote for the bill!

Please use the following link to find out who your lawmakers are (use the zip +4 search box on the left), and then look under the resources tab above to find a sample letter that you are more than welcome to use as a template. Again, a show of force is so important in a political campaign, so make sure to tell your friends to e-mail their representatives too!

UGA Students Learn About Dog Fighting

Jon_Dunn — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 16:28:57 GMT

A movie and snacks help show the ugly world of dog fighting, and teach students about how they can be involved in the legislative process

By Jon Dunn, Best Friends Animal Society

A large table greeted students in the film room of the Student Learning Center at the University of Georgia. Leaflets covered the table with information about giving up meat, legislative work for animals, but the main topic this night was dog fighting.

Last Monday, a group of students at the University of Georgia set out to educate their fellow Georgia Bulldogs. The film “Off the Chain” was shown to the more than 50 students who attended to learn more about the evils of dog fighting and to learn how they can help.

The movie is incredibly hard to watch, with graphic scenes of dog fighting and the aftermath of those fights. At several moments during the film, the students in attendance winced as dogs tore each other to pieces. They laughed incredulously when a masked man spoke of how much he “loved his dogs.” But the lessons learned are valuable ones, that the evil world of dog fighting is one that needs to be stopped.

Best Friends Animal Society Legislative Coordinator, Pat White took the opportunity to speak to the students after the film. “There are two things in the world that sometimes you don’t want to see made: laws and sausage. But know one thing; lawmakers will listen as soon as they know you are a voter in their district.”

The students responded well to the film and the talk afterwards. Many wondered how they could help the efforts of the dog fighting bill currently making its way through the Legislature.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Join this campaign!

Staying in touch with the latest developments is an enormous part of this campaign. Politics changes everyday so please stay informed by joining the Network by clicking here! Once you are a member, please join this community by clicking on the, “join this community” link on the right side of the page. You can choose to be alerted any time a new story is posted. That is the best way to stay informed!

Sign the Petition!

For those of you in GEORGIA ONLY, please take the time to sign our petition. The results will be delivered to lawmakers. Showing a strong amount of support is the best way to let lawmakers know how important this bill is. Again, we ask that only residents of Georgia sign this petition please.

Contact your lawmakers!

Please make sure you contact your Georgia lawmakers. Letting them know that there are people in their respective districts that support the legislation is the best way to let them know that they need to vote for the bill!

Please use the following link to find out who your lawmakers are (use the zip +4 search box on the left), and then look under the resources tab above to find a sample letter that you are more than welcome to use as a template. Again, a show of force is so important in a political campaign, so make sure to tell your friends to e-mail their representatives too!

Photos Courtesy of Pruddle, and Josh Hallett, via Wiki Commons

UPDATE: Georgia Dog Fighting Bill One Step Closer to Reality

Jon_dunn — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 23:50:21 GMT

Non-Civil Judiciary Committee says bill is ok to move forward

By Jon Dunn, Best Friends Animal Society

This morning inside the Georgia State Capitol, 16 lawmakers debated the merits of a bill that would severely punish those involved in the cruel blood sport of dog fighting.

The bill working its way on the house side is H.B. 301, not the bill of state Senator Chip Rogers, but the language is still strong and supporters are happy with today’s news.

Sen. Rogers, like most Georgians, is anxious to see stiffer penalties for those who dog fight. He is now working closely with house member Rep. Bobby Reese of Gwinnett County to make sure legislation passes in 2008.

The bill passed the committee, by a 15-1 vote.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Join this campaign!

Staying in touch with the latest developments is an enormous part of this campaign. Politics changes everyday so please stay informed by joining the Network by clicking here! Once you are a member, please join this community by clicking on the, “join this community” link on the right side of the page. You can choose to be alerted any time a new story is posted. That is the best way to stay informed!

Sign the Petition!

For those of you in GEORGIA ONLY, please take the time to sign our petition. The results will be delivered to lawmakers once the session begins. Showing a strong amount of support is the best way to let lawmakers know how important this bill is. Again, we ask that only residents of Georgia sign this petition please.

Contact your lamakers!

Please make sure you contact your Georgia lawmakers. Letting them know that there are people in their respective districts that support the legislation is the best way to let them know that they need to vote for the bill!

Please use the following link to find out who your lawmakers are (use the zip +4 search box on the left), and then look under the resources tab above to find a sample letter that you are more than welcome to use as a template. Again, a show of force is so important in a political campaign, so make sure to tell your friends to e-mail their representatives too!

Photo Courtesy of Jamie Lantzy, via Wiki Commons

Lobby Day Will Offer Chance to Learn Process and Help Bill

Jon_Dunn — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 20:40:21 GMT

Anyone is invited to attend January 30th, when we hope to talk to as many lawmakers as possible!

On January 30th, YOU can make a difference during a lobby day at the Georgia Capitol! In the morning a short period of instruction will allow you to learn tips and techniques from experienced lobbyists on how to effectively communicate with your elected officials. Then in the afternoon, you will be able to meet with lawmakers and let them know why passage of tougher dog fighting laws is so important.

We ask that you please RSVP to Best Friends Animal Society Campaign Specialist Jon Dunn at jond@bestfriends.org. That will allow us to keep you up to date on details for the lobby day. Just tell us your name, and where you are from!

New Georgia Law Could Mean Dog Fighters Finally Get What’s Coming to Them

Jon_Dunn — Tue, 08 Jan 2008 03:03:20 GMT

Law enforcement officials say that too many involved today are allowed to just walk away

By Jon Dunn, Best Friends Animal Society

Gwinnett County Sheriff Butch Conway knows what goes on in his area. In the more than thirty years he has spent in the metro Atlanta county, he has seen population dramatically increase, and with that has come all sorts of new problems related to crime, including dog fighting.

“There are now 800,000 people in my county alone, and it is a diverse population,” said Conway. “So yes, there are people here who have that mentality.”

Conway has been a leader in the fight against dog fighting in the state of Georgia, offering his own money as a reward for any tip leading to the conviction of a dog fighter. The $10,000 has not yet been given away by Conway, and it's possible the inadequacy of the current dog fighting laws has played a part in that.

Recently, four men in Snellville, a city within Gwinnett County, were arrested for taking part in dog fighting. Conway said that, of the four, only one of the men was even charged by prosecutors. The current law is so weak, that the other three would have undoubtedly walked away.

“The only guy they could go after was the owner of the house. Even though it was clear that the other three men were involved, the level of proof is just too great, so there was no way we could charge them,” said Conway.

The proposed new law, however, would make it possible to prosecute even those who simply attend dog fighting events. Today, only those able to be directly identified as dog owners can face jail time. If the new law is passed, anyone caught breeding pit bulls for fighting and those involved in training the dogs could also face prosecution.

Conway said passage of this bill is critical if Georgians want to see dog fighters stopped. “This new law will be one of the best in the country. It will mean a lot of progress for the state.”

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Join this campaign!

Staying in touch with the latest developments is an enormous part of this campaign. Politics changes everyday so please stay informed by joining the Network by clicking here!. Once you are a member, please join this community by clicking on the, “join this community” link on the right side of the page. You can choose to be alerted any time a new story is posted. That is the best way to stay informed!

Sign the Petition!

For those of you in GEORGIA ONLY, please take the time to sign our petition. The results will be delivered to lawmakers once the session begins. Showing a strong amount of support is the best way to let lawmakers know how important this bill is. Again, we ask that only residents of Georgia sign this petition please.

Contact your lawmakers!

Please make sure you contact your Georgia lawmakers. Letting them know that there are people in their respective districts that support the legislation is a great way to let them know that they need to vote for the bill!

Please use the following link to find out who your lawmakers are (use the zip +4 search box on the left), and then look under the resources tab above to find a sample letter that you are more than welcome to use as a template. Again, a show of force is so important in a political campaign, so make sure to tell your friends to e-mail their representatives too!

Watch the Willie Nelson Ad

schnep — Mon, 10 Dec 2007 07:27:53 GMT

And donate to ensure it is seen far and wide...

Willie Nelson has joined the fight against dog fighting by recording a public service announcement for Best Friends Animal Society. The TV ad will begin running this week in Georgia, and, with your financial support, will continue running through the 2008 Georgia Legislative Session. In the spot, Willie Nelson encourages Georgians to support legislation that would strengthen the anti-dog fighting laws in their state.

Please click here to see the ad on YouTube!

Your donation will help us purchase airtime for the ad, and will help keep the pressure on the members of the Georgia Legislature. Thank you for your support.

Petition Drive Underway!

Jon_Dunn — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 16:42:41 GMT

In just about a month, the Georgia Legislature will re-convene, and the Georgia Dog Fighting Act will get its fourth chance at passage.

Some lawmakers still don't believe that a majority of their constituents would like to see the tougher law. Let's show them that you want to see those involved in dog fighting punished.

Please sign the following petition but ONLY IF YOU ARE A RESIDENT OF GEORGIA.

Be sure to include which city you live in so we can make sure the lawmakers see that there are individuals in their districts ready for change.

What if you are not a resident of Georgia, but still want to help?

If you are not a resident of Georgia, please think of anyone you may know in Georgia! If you have a My Space account, post this story as a bulletin. Do the same for Facebook! Let's spread the word across the Peach State. Just make sure to include a link for this story within anything you post!

This is a world where we are all supposed to be linked somehow right? Let's pull together to show the Georgia Lawmakers just how many people want to see this tougher law.

The results of the petition will be delivered to the Legislature once the session begins.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN THE PETITION

Where Does the Georgia Dog Fighting Act Stand?

Jon_Dunn — Tue, 20 Nov 2007 20:18:48 GMT

Current status of the bill and how you can help!

The Georgia Dog Fighting Act passed unanimously by the Senate during the last three legislative session. In 2007, the bill remained in the House Non-Civil Judiciary Committee when the session ended.

The purpose behind the Georgia Dog Fighting Act was to replace the antiquated law and give prosecutors the tools they need to prosecute those who intentionally involve themselves in dog fighting. It removes potential loopholes and protects those involved in legitimate sporting and hunting practices. This bill specifically protects the rights of hunters and does not infringe whatsoever in the training of dogs to hunt.

The Georgia Dog Fighting Act will amend and strengthen Georgia's Dog Fighting Law in the following ways:

* The Georgia Dog Fighting Act makes it illegal for a person to train a dog for the purpose of fighting. SB 16 uses the term “baiting” to describe training. Baiting is carefully defined so that it is limited to the training of dogs specifically for the purpose of fighting and will not prohibit any type of legal dog training activity.
* The Georgia Dog Fighting Act makes it illegal for a person to own, breed, purchase or transport a dog for the purpose of fighting or baiting.
* The Georgia Dog Fighting Act makes it illegal to rent or make available any location for the purpose of fighting or baiting.
* The Georgia Dog Fighting Act makes it illegal to bet, referee, promote, advertise, sponsor or serve as the stakeholder for any dog fighting or baiting activity.
* The Georgia Dog Fighting Act keeps the same felony penalty that Georgia's current law has. SB 16 removes mandatory sentencing and gives Judges more discretion.
* The Georgia Dog Fighting Act adds a new felony penalty of imprisonment between 1 and 10 years, minimum fine of $15,000 or both imprisonment and fine for a second or subsequent conviction of dog fighting by the same person.
* The Georgia Dog Fighting Act adds the new felony offense of being a spectator at a dog fight.
* The Georgia Dog Fighting Act adds that Judges may prohibit defendants from owning or possessing animals.
* The Georgia Dog Fighting Act applies only to dog on dog fighting and does not prohibit hunting or dog competition training.

The majority of Dog Fighters have a lengthy criminal history and do not value public safety .

Dog Fighting breeds criminal activity; including:

* Organized Crime
* Drug Trafficking/Narcotics
* Money Laundering
* Gambling
* Child Endangerment
* Weapons
* Gang Activity
* Homicide

Efforts are currently underway with a strong team on the ground in Georgia! Every effort will be made to see this bill through. We still however need your help!

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Join this campaign!

Staying in touch with the latest developments is an enormous part of this campaign. Politics changes everyday so please stay informed by joining the Network by clicking here!. Once you are a member, please join this community by clicking on the, “join this community” link on the right side of the page. You can choose to be alerted any time a new story is posted. That is the best way to stay informed!

Contact your lamakers!

Please make sure you contact your Georgia lawmakers. Letting them know that there are people in their respective districts that support the legislation is the best way to let them know that they need to vote for the bill!

Please use the following link to find out who your lawmakers are (use the zip +4 search box on the left), and then look under the resources tab above to find a sample letter that you are more than welcome to use as a template. Again, a show of force is so important in a political campaign, so make sure to tell your friends to e-mail their representatives too!

Letter to Rep.doc

Anonymous — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 20:13:38 GMT

Willie Nelson Jumps On Board to Fight for the Dogs

Jon_Dunn — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 03:34:02 GMT

Music Legend shoots video PSA in support of tougher dog fighting laws in the Peach State

By Jon Dunn, Best Friends Staff

The PSA shot by Best Friends Animal Society will run in Georgia, and across the country. Please click here to see the video!

American Legend Willie Nelson joined forces with Best Friends Animal Society to take a stand against dog fighting. Before a recent concert at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nelson took the time to make his feelings known about the brutal industry of dog fighting by shooting a PSA in support of the Georgia Dog Fighting Act . If passed, the Georgia Dog Fighting Act , which will be introduced in the 2008 Georgia legislative session, will amend and strengthen the state's dog fighting laws.

“Willie could not have been more gracious,” said Best Friends Animal Society Campaign Specialist Jon Dunn. “Willie has an enormous amount of compassion for animals, and we couldn’t be happier that he decided to join forces with us and the thousands of people across Georgia who want to see a tougher law.”

The public service announcement will begin airing across the state of Georgia in December, and continue through the legislative session, which begins in January. Willie Nelson taking part this year will hopefully push the bill over the edge to passage. But for four years, many people in the state have been working hard to strengthen the dog fighting laws, including the Georgia Dog Fighting Act's sponsor, Senator Chip Rogers.

A few years ago, in Chip Rogers’ suburban Atlanta district, a three year old boy was brutally attacked by a pit bull. It was a tragic story, the kind that can easily cause a knee jerk reaction to hate the breed, and that’s exactly what happened.

“My first reaction was to ban pit bulls,” explained Rogers. “But the more I researched I realized these dogs are not to blame. It’s the widespread fighting issue. These guys are creating killing machines. They are the ones that must be stopped, not the dogs.”

So three years ago Rogers set out to bring the state of Georgia more in line with other states around the country by toughening up the state's dog fighting laws. Opposition from groups have made passage of the bill difficult, but several re-writes later, Rogers and others in the state believe this January will be time for victory.

“My goal is to have this passed and to the Governor by the end of January,” said Rogers. “We have become a haven for dog fighting. We do not want to be the dog fighting capital of the United States.”

Georgia is not the only state in the nation taking a second look at its laws, especially after the Michael Vick case. For Georgia, the home of the Atlanta Falcons, the Vick case may just make it that much easier to finally get the legislation through.

“It was a sad case [Vick],” explained Rogers. “It was especially sad that it took what happened with Vick to heighten awareness. Everyone in Georgia now realizes that dog fighting is a serious crime, and I just hope we can turn something that was so bad into something good.”

The bill has already passed the Senate, in the last session by an overwhelming 54-to-0 vote. It will go through the same process in the House in January, and Rogers is now pushing his colleagues hard to make sure that this time, anyone involved in dog fighting does not have the opportunity to get away unpunished.

The current law is weak on the industry of dog fighting in the state. This bill would toughen the penalties on anyone involved in any areas of dog fighting, as well as make it a felony offense to attend a dog fight.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Donate to get this PSA on the air in Georgia. With your help, we can spread the word about the Georgia Dog Fighting Act, and help end the cruelty of dog fighting in the Peach State.

Join this campaign!

Staying in touch with the latest developments is an enormous part of this campaign. Politics changes everyday so please stay informed by joining the Network by clicking here!. Once you are a member, please join this community by clicking on the, “join this community” link on the right side of the page. You can choose to be alerted any time a new story is posted. That is the best way to stay informed!

Contact your lawmakers!

Please make sure you contact your Georgia lawmakers. Letting them know that there are people in their respective districts that support the legislation is the best way to let them know that they need to vote for the bill!

Please use the following link to find out who your lawmakers are (use the zip +4 search box on the left), and then look under the resources tab above to find a sample letter that you are more than welcome to use as a template. Again, a show of force is so important in a political campaign, so make sure to tell your friends to e-mail their representatives too!

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Read The Georgia Dog Fighting Act in full

Jon_Dunn — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 01:38:01 GMT

The Georgia Dog Fighting Act will get its fourth chance at passing come the legislative session in January, 2008.

Here is the text of the full bill proposed by Georgia State Senator Chip Rogers.

By: Senators Rogers of the 21st, Pearson of the 51st, Goggans of the 7th, Heath of the 31st, Carter of the 13th and others

AS PASSED SENATE

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT

To amend Title 4 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to animals, so as to change certain provisions relating to definitions relative to Chapter 8 of said title; to change certain provisions relating to inspections, impoundment of animals, and exceptions; to change certain provisions relating to failure to respond, right to hearing, care, and crime exception; to change certain provisions relating to filing a report regarding animal cruelty and immunity; to amend Part 1 of Article 2 of Chapter 12 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to gambling offenses, so as to change certain provisions relating to dog fighting; to prohibit fighting or enticement for dog fighting and related conduct; to provide for punishments; to define certain terms; to provide a short title; to provide legislative findings and declarations; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF GEORGIA:

SECTION 1.
This Act shall be known and may be cited as the "Dog Fighting Act."

SECTION 2.
The General Assembly finds and declares that the fighting of dogs against dogs in this state promotes criminal activity that adversely affects public safety and it is a cruel and unacceptable practice. The General Assembly recognizes and supports the training and use of dogs for hunting, field trials, and other legitimate sporting exhibitions or competitions. The General Assembly finds and declares further that the most effective, economical, humane, and ethical solution to the problem of dog fighting is to punish such conduct as a criminal act.

SECTION 3.
Title 4 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to animals, is amended by revising paragraph (6) of Code Section 4-8-41, relating to definitions relative to Chapter 8 of said title, as follows:
"(6) 'Vicious dog' means any dog that:
(A) Inflicts inflicts a severe injury on a human being without provocation after the owner has notice that the dog has previously bitten or attacked or endangered the safety of a human being; or
(B) Is owned, possessed, kept, harbored, trained, or maintained for the purpose of fighting.
Such term shall not include a dog that inflicts an injury upon a person when the dog is being used by a law enforcement officer to carry out the law enforcement officer´s official duties. A dog shall not be a vicious dog if the injury inflicted by the dog was sustained by a person who, at the time, was committing a willful trespass or other tort or was tormenting, abusing, or assaulting the dog or had in the past been observed or reported to have tormented, abused, or assaulted the dog or was committing or attempting to commit a crime."

SECTION 4.
Said title is further amended by revising subsection (c) of Code Section 4-11-9.3, relating to inspections, impoundment of animals, and exceptions, as follows:
"(c) Any person impounding an animal under this article is authorized to return the animal to its owner, upon payment by the owner of all costs of impoundment and care and upon the entry of a consent order, unless such owner was, in a prior administrative or legal action in this state or any other state, found to have failed to provide humane care to an animal, committed cruelty to animals, or engaged in dog fighting or enticement for dog fighting, as such terms are defined in Code Section 16-12-37, in violation of the laws of this state or of the United States or any of the several states. Such consent order shall provide conditions relating to the care and treatment of such animal, including, but not limited to, the following, that:
(1) Such animal will be given humane care and adequate and necessary veterinary services;
(2) Such animal will not be subjected to cruelty; and
(3) The owner will comply with this article."

SECTION 5.
Said title is further amended by revising subparagraph (b)(6)(B) of Code Section 4-11-9.5, relating to failure to respond, right to hearing, care, and crime exception, as follows:
"(B) Unless, in a prior administrative or legal action in this state or any other state, the owner has been found to have failed to provide humane care to an animal, committed cruelty to animals, or engaged in dog fighting or enticement for dog fighting, as such terms are defined in Code Section 16-12-37, in violation of the laws of this state or of the United States or any of the several states, recommend conditions under which the animal may, upon payment by the owner of all costs of impoundment and care, be returned to the owner. Such conditions shall be reduced to writing and served upon the owner and the government agency having custody of the animal. Such conditions may include, but are not limited to, the following, that:
(i) Such animal will be given humane care and adequate and necessary veterinary services;
(ii) Such animal will not be subjected to mistreatment; and
(iii) The owner will comply with this article."

SECTION 6.
Said title is further amended by revising subsection (a) of Code Section 4-11-17, relating to filing a report regarding animal cruelty and immunity, as follows:
"(a) Notwithstanding Code Section 24-9-29 or any other provision of law to the contrary, any licensed accredited veterinarian or veterinary technician having reasonable cause to believe that an animal has been subjected to animal cruelty in violation of Code Section 16-12-4 or dog fighting or enticement for dog fighting, as such terms are defined in Code Section 16-12-37, in violation of Code Section 16-12-37 may make or cause to be made a report of such violation to the Commissioner, his or her designee, an animal control officer, a law enforcement agency, or a prosecuting attorney and may appear and testify in any judicial or administrative proceeding concerning the care of an animal."

SECTION 7.
Part 1 of Article 2 of Chapter 12 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to gambling offenses, is amended by revising Code Section 16-12-37, relating to dog fighting, as follows:
"16-12-37.
(a) A person commits the offense of dogfighting when he causes or allows a dog to fight another dog for sport or gaming purposes or maintains or operates any event at which dogs are allowed or encouraged to fight one another.
(b) A person convicted of the offense of dogfighting shall be punished by a mandatory fine of $5,000.00 or by a mandatory fine of $5,000.00 and imprisonment for not less than one year nor more than five years.
(a) This Code section shall not prohibit, impede, or otherwise interfere with recognized animal husbandry and training techniques or practices not otherwise specifically prohibited by law, and the following activities shall not constitute a violation of this Code section:
(1) Owning, using, breeding, training, or equipping any dog to pursue, take, hunt, or recover wildlife or any animal that could be lawfully hunted or taken under Title 27 or participating in hunting or fishing in accordance with provisions of Title 27 and rules and regulations promulgated pursuant thereto as such rules and regulations existed on the date specified in Code Section 27-1-39;
(2) Owning, using, breeding, training, or equipping dogs to work livestock for agricultural purposes in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Commissioner of Agriculture as such rules and regulations existed on January 1, 2007;
(3) Owning, using, breeding, training, or equipping dogs for law enforcement purposes; or
(4) Owning, using, breeding, training, or equipping any dog to control damage from nuisance or pest species in and around structures or agricultural operations.
(b) As used in this Code section, the term:
(1) 'Dog' means any member of the species canis familiaris or any intentionally bred hybrid of the species canis familiaris.
(2) 'Enticement for dog fighting' means knowingly and intentionally provoking, harassing, or encouraging a dog with another animal for the specific purpose of training a dog for or causing a dog to engage in fighting as defined in this Code section.
(3) 'Fighting' means an attack by a dog against another dog resulting from the intentional act of any person.
(4) 'Person' means any natural person or any firm, partnership, association, or corporation.
(5) 'Spectator' means any person, other than a minor child under the age of 14, who is willfully present at any location, structure, or facility with knowledge that fighting or enticement for dog fighting is taking place.
(c) Any person who:
(1) Intentionally causes any fighting or enticement for dog fighting;
(2) Knowingly owns, possesses, harbors, keeps, or has custody or control of any dog for the purpose of fighting or enticement for dog fighting;
(3) Knowingly trains, purchases, sells, transports, transfers, breeds, or equips any dog for the purpose of fighting or enticement for dog fighting;
(4) Knowingly purchases, rents, leases, or otherwise acquires or obtains the use of any structure, facility, property, or location to be used for the purpose of fighting or enticement for dog fighting;
(5) Knowingly allows, permits, or makes available any structure, facility, property, or location to be used for the purpose of fighting or enticement for dog fighting;
(6) Bets, wagers, or encourages another to bet or wager anything of value on any dog fighting or enticement for dog fighting activity;
(7) Knowingly facilitates, conducts, sponsors, organizes, stages, referees, or charges an admission fee for or serves as the stakeholder on any dog fighting or enticement for dog fighting activity;
(8) Knowingly uses any means of communication for the purposes of promoting or advertising fighting or enticement for dog fighting; or
(9) Is a spectator as defined in this Code section
shall be guilty of a felony; and upon a first conviction thereof such person shall be punished by imprisonment for no less than one year nor more than five years, a fine of not less than $5,000.00, or both such fine and imprisonment; and upon a second or subsequent conviction thereof such person shall be punished by imprisonment for not less than one year nor more than ten years, a fine of not less than $15,000.00, or both such fine and imprisonment. Each act or omission in violation of this subsection shall constitute a separate offense. The court, as part of the sentence, may prohibit the offender from owning, possessing, or having on the offender´s premises any dog during the term of the sentence."