News Summary
Spencer Lamont Moultrie, 54, has been arrested in Beaufort County for dogfighting and animal cruelty after authorities discovered ten abused dogs on his property. Conducted by SLED, the raid revealed severe injuries on most dogs, with items linked to dogfighting found. Moultrie faces felony charges under South Carolina’s laws against animal fighting. The rescued dogs are now in the care of a nonprofit organization dedicated to animal welfare. This case highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat dogfighting in the region.
Beaufort County, South Carolina – A 54-year-old man named Spencer Lamont Moultrie has been arrested and charged with dogfighting and ill treatment of animals after authorities discovered ten dogs suffering from abuse on his property in Seabrook. The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) conducted a raid on August 11, 2025, in response to reports from Beaufort County Animal Services regarding signs of animal cruelty.
Upon arrival at Moultrie’s property, investigators found that nine out of the ten dogs exhibited serious injuries and scarring consistent with organized dogfighting, as confirmed by a veterinary evaluation. Moultrie acknowledged ownership of the dogs but claimed that they belonged to another unnamed individual, a statement documented in the arrest warrant.
Items typically associated with dogfighting were also discovered on Moultrie’s property, although specific details about these items have not been released. The arrested individual is facing charges under South Carolina’s Animal Fighting and Baiting Act, which strictly prohibits the ownership of animals for fighting purposes as well as the facilitation of such activities on one’s premises. This crime is classified as a felony, which may result in a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a $5,000 fine, or both.
Moultrie was booked into the Beaufort County Detention Center but was released the same day on a personal recognizance bond. As the investigation continues, SLED has yet to determine if Moultrie is linked to a larger dogfighting operation, and it remains unclear if additional arrests may follow.
Rescue of Abused Animals
The ten dogs rescued from Moultrie’s property have been placed under the care of the Humane World for Animals, a nonprofit organization focused on providing veterinary care to injured and abused animals. The organization expressed that the situation was “heartbreaking,” noting the poor condition of the dogs, many of which were observed chained and seeking shelter from adverse weather conditions.
Law Enforcement Response
This investigation is part of a wider initiative by SLED’s Dogfighting Division, which has made significant strides in addressing the issue of dogfighting in South Carolina since its establishment in 2023. In the previous year alone, SLED apprehended 60 individuals and rescued 231 dogs connected to various suspected dogfighting operations throughout the state.
The recent raid and arrest were made possible through a collaborative effort involving Beaufort County Animal Control, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office, and the Hampton County Sheriff’s Office, showcasing a concerted response by law enforcement to combat the rising trend of animal cruelty related to dogfighting.
Background Context
In South Carolina, organized dogfighting is not only an illegal activity but also a deeply concerning issue that has prompted animal welfare organizations and law enforcement to ramp up their efforts in eradicating it. The disturbing conditions under which many of these animals are kept highlight the importance of continued vigilance and prevention measures to safeguard against animal cruelty.
The actions taken in this recent case emphasize the commitment of local authorities to protect vulnerable animals and hold individuals accountable for engaging in brutal practices such as dogfighting. As investigations progress, SLED and its partners remain dedicated to uncovering and dismantling dogfighting networks in the area.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beaufort County Man Arrested for Dog Fighting
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Dog Fighting Arrest
- Wikipedia: Dogfighting
- Post and Courier: Beaufort County Dogfighting Arrest
- Google Search: Animal Cruelty South Carolina
- ABC News 4: Dogfighting Charge
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Animal Cruelty
- WTOC: Beaufort Co Man Charged
- Google News: Dogfighting SC
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.
