SWAINSBORO, GA (WTOC) – An Emanuel County man was arrested and 18 dogs were seized in what lawmen called an “organized and coordinated” dog fighting and training operation.
Sheriff’s deputies and GBI agents arrested William Panick of Gar Road in Oak Park. Lawmen acted on tips from the Atlanta Humane Society and Norred and Associates, a private investigation firm. Norred has initiated 18 similar raids around the state with information from a confidential tip line, 877.215.2250.
“I was sickened by the deplorable and disgusting conditions these animals were being forced to live in,” stated Emanuel County Sheriff Tyson Stephens. ”The way these dogs were being treated is deeply troubling.”
Panick was charged with aggravated cruelty to animals. Charges of dog fighting and possession of marijuana are pending.
