South Carolina Man Arrested After 24 Pit Bulls Found in Dog Fighting, Drug Operation
ORANGEBURG COUNTY, SOUTH CAROLINA — A South Carolina man is facing multiple charges after 24 pit bulls were rescued from what officials described as “inhumane and violent” conditions during a raid in Orangeburg County.
According to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), 53-year-old Christopher Corbitt was charged with animal fighting or baiting and ill treatment of animals following a multi-agency investigation.
Rescue Operation Uncovers Signs of Dog Fighting
The investigation began after SLED obtained a search warrant for a property in Springfield, South Carolina. When officers entered the property, they discovered 24 pit bulls, many with deep scars, open wounds, and heavy chains restraining them to makeshift posts.
Officials said the visible injuries were “consistent with organized dog fighting.”
“The conditions were horrific,” a SLED spokesperson said. “Several of the dogs had clear signs of repeated abuse and neglect, with no proper shelter or access to clean water.”
The Orangeburg County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) assisted in the operation.
Massive Drug and Cash Seizure
During the search, investigators also uncovered a large quantity of illegal drugs and weapons, turning what began as a dog-fighting case into a major criminal probe.
Authorities said they seized:
- Over one pound of methamphetamine
- 24 grams of cocaine
- A quarter kilo of fentanyl powder
- THC vape cartridges and oxycodone pills
- Two handguns and four vehicles
- An electronic currency counter
- $22,421 in cash
Investigators believe the dog fighting operation was part of a broader drug distribution network operating out of the property.
Suspect in Custody, Facing Multiple Charges
Corbitt was taken into custody and booked into the Orangeburg County Detention Center. He is facing animal cruelty, drug trafficking, and weapons charges, with additional counts expected as the investigation continues.
SLED confirmed that the case will be prosecuted by the 1st Circuit Solicitor’s Office, which handles major felonies in the region.
Dogs Recovering in Care
The rescued pit bulls are now under the supervision of veterinary and animal welfare organizations, receiving medical care and rehabilitation. Officials said some of the dogs were severely malnourished and will require long-term recovery.
“This is one of the worst cases of cruelty we’ve seen in recent years,” one official said. “But we’re grateful these dogs are finally safe.”
Statewide Push to End Dog Fighting
Law enforcement agencies across South Carolina continue to crack down on dog fighting operations, which often coincide with illegal gambling and drug activity.
Authorities urge residents to report suspected animal abuse or fighting rings to local law enforcement or the South Carolina Animal Fighting Hotline.
For now, investigators say the Orangeburg County case serves as a sobering reminder of how deeply animal cruelty and organized crime can intertwine.
Stay updated on developing cases and law enforcement investigations at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
