Beaufort County, August 29, 2025
News Summary
Justinn Benjamin Moultrie, a 30-year-old from Beaufort County, has been charged with multiple counts of animal fighting and mistreatment. The charges stemmed from an operation by SLED’s Dogfighting Unit, which resulted in the seizure of ten dogs from Moultrie’s residence. The dogs showed signs of having been involved in fighting, and they are now in the care of a nonprofit organization. The operation also led to the arrest of Moultrie’s father, showcasing a growing issue of animal fighting in South Carolina.
Beaufort County Man Charged with Multiple Counts of Animal Fighting and Mistreatment
Burton, Beaufort County – Justinn Benjamin Moultrie, a 30-year-old resident, has been charged with nine counts of animal fighting and nine counts of ill treatment of animals. These charges were filed by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) following an operation that occurred on August 11 at Moultrie’s residence.
The operation, initiated by SLED’s Dogfighting Unit, targeted Moultrie based on information suggesting that he was using dogs for fighting. During the operation, nine adult dogs and one puppy were seized, all of which underwent examination by a veterinarian. The veterinarian confirmed that the dogs exhibited scar patterns consistent with fighting, highlighting their involvement in this illegal activity.
Moultrie was not at the residence when the search warrant was executed but was later arrested in a separate location on a following Tuesday. He is currently being held at the Beaufort County Detention Center pending further legal proceedings. The case will be prosecuted by the 14th Circuit Solicitor’s Office. SLED has reported that anyone with information regarding suspected dog fighting in South Carolina can send tips to the Dogfighting Unit via email.
Details of the Operation
The operation on August 11 also led to the arrest of Spencer Lamont Moultrie, Justinn’s 54-year-old father. Spencer was charged with one violation of the Animal Fighting Act and one violation of animal mistreatment. Investigators found multiple items associated with dog fighting at his property as well, where ten dogs were discovered in a clearing, chained and using makeshift shelters.
Both Spencer and Justinn Moultrie are part of a growing concern regarding animal fighting in South Carolina. The seized dogs have since been placed in the care of the Humane World for Animals nonprofit organization, which is responsible for their ongoing veterinary care. The financial burden for the initial care of these animals was approximately $31,600, with further monthly payments anticipated.
Context of Animal Protection in South Carolina
The Animal Legal Defense Fund recently acknowledged South Carolina as the “most improved” state for animal protection laws in its 2024 report. This recognition coincides with the formation of SLED’s Dogfighting Unit in 2023, a development that has significantly increased the number of arrests and rescues related to dogfighting. In the last year alone, SLED reported that 60 individuals were arrested and 231 dogs rescued from dogfighting operations statewide.
The issue of animal fighting remains prevalent, prompting SLED to expand its focus on combating this brutal practice. The public’s awareness and collaboration are crucial in preventing such abuses. Individuals are urged to actively report any knowledge of illegal animal fighting activities.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Charged Individual: Justinn Benjamin Moultrie, 30
- Charges: Nine counts of animal fighting, nine counts of ill treatment of animals
- Operation Date: August 11, following a SLED investigation
- Veterinarian’s Findings: Scar patterns on dogs consistent with dog fighting
- Care of Dogs: Transferred to Humane World for Animals, initial costs at $31,600
- Related Arrest: Spencer Lamont Moultrie, 54, charged with violations of the Animal Fighting Act
- SLED Dogfighting Unit: Formed in 2023, resulting in increased arrests and rescues
FAQ Section
What are the charges against Justinn Benjamin Moultrie?
Justinn Moultrie has been charged with nine counts of animal fighting and nine counts of ill treatment of animals.
What prompted the SLED operation on August 11?
The operation was initiated based on information suggesting that Justinn Moultrie was using dogs for fighting.
What happened to the dogs that were seized?
The seized dogs were transferred to the Humane World for Animals nonprofit for veterinary care.
What initiative has the SLED implemented to combat animal fighting?
SLED has formed a Dogfighting Unit in 2023, which has resulted in increased arrests and rescues related to dogfighting.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Charges Against Individual | Justinn Moultrie faces multiple charges including animal fighting and animal mistreatment. |
| SLED Operation | Conducted on August 11, leading to the seizure of ten dogs and subsequent arrests. |
| Veterinary Examination | Dogs exhibited scarring consistent with dogfighting. |
| Legislative Progress | South Carolina recognized for improved animal protection laws in 2024. |
| Unit Performance | The SLED Dogfighting Unit rescued 231 dogs and arrested 60 individuals last year. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Burton Resident Charged in Major Dog Fighting Case
Burton Man Faces Charges for Animal Fighting
Father and Son Charged in Beaufort County Dogfighting Case
Beaufort Police Department Releases Sensitive Information
Beaufort County Launches Animal Shelter Agreement with Jasper County
Man Charged with Animal Fighting in Beaufort County
Man Arrested for Dogfighting in Beaufort County
Beaufort County Man Arrested for Dog Fighting
Mandatory Evacuations in South Carolina Due to Wildfires
Evacuations Underway as Wildfires Spread in Greenville and Pickens Counties
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Beaufort County Man Charged
- Wikipedia: Animal Fighting
- Live 5 News: SLED Charges Beaufort County Man
- Google Search: Animal Protection Laws South Carolina
- ABC News 4: Beaufort County Man Faces Charges
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Animal Rights
- WJCL: Beaufort County Dogfighting Arrest
- Google Scholar: Animal Fighting Law
- WYFF 4: SLED SC Animal Fighting Abuse
- Google News: Dog Fighting South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
