In Speech, Byrd Denounces Enthusiasts of Dogfighting Associated Press

“Let that word resound from hill to hill and from mountain to mountain, from valley to valley across this broad land,” he thundered, raising his right hand. “May God help those poor souls who would be so cruel. Barbaric! Hear me!”

Federal agents have charged Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick and three others with procuring and training pit bulls for fighting in Virginia and elsewhere. Investigators say some losing dogs died in the pit or were later electrocuted, drowned, hanged or shot.

Byrd, 89, said he would not prejudge the men’s guilt or innocence, but he left no doubts about his sentiments.

“I am confident that the hottest places in hell are reserved for the souls of sick and brutal people who hold God’s creatures in such brutal and cruel contempt,” he said.

“One is left wondering,” he said. “Who are the real animals: the creatures inside or outside the ring?”
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ABQjournal NM: N.M. Addresses Dogfighting, By Trip Jennings
Copyright © 2007 Albuquerque Journal; Journal Capitol Bureau

SANTA FE— The indictment of NFL quarterback Michael Vick this week for allegedly sponsoring a grisly dogfighting ring has placed a spotlight on people who wager money— sometimes big money— on the brutal blood sport.

New Mexico has a law against dogfighting. But although Bernalillo County Sheriff Darren White and other officials said Thursday that illegal dogfighting goes on in New Mexico, they don’t know how much money is involved or how often fights are held. …

“They train pit bulls by using a small cat or a small dog,” Greenhood said. “They set them up as a bait to kill, to foster aggression.”

“It’s hard to get people to testify because there are threats and intimidation,” Greenhood said. “There’s a lot of money at stake.”

http://www.abqjournal.com/news/state/579976nm07-20-07.htm