August 27, 2025

Father and Son Charged in Beaufort County Dogfighting Case

Beaufort County, August 27, 2025

News Summary

Justinn and Spencer Moultrie have been charged in connection with an alleged dogfighting operation in Beaufort County. SLED’s investigation led to the seizure of ten dogs, with signs of cruelty and poor living conditions reported. The legal repercussions include significant felony charges for Justinn and a single felony charge for Spencer. As the Dogfighting Unit ramps up efforts, the case underscores ongoing animal welfare concerns in South Carolina.

Beaufort County Father and Son Charged in Alleged Dogfighting Operation Following Investigation by SLED

Beaufort County, SC – Justinn Benjamin Moultrie, 29, has been charged with nine violations of South Carolina’s Animal Fighting and Baiting Act along with nine counts of animal mistreatment in connection with an alleged dogfighting operation. Most of these charges are felonies, with one count being a misdemeanor. His father, Spencer Lamont Moultrie, 54, faces one violation of the Animal Fighting and Baiting Act and a single count of animal mistreatment.

Spencer Moultrie was arrested on August 11 for his involvement and was released the same day without bail. In contrast, Justinn Moultrie was taken into custody on August 26 and has been held at the Beaufort County Detention Center since that afternoon. The specifics concerning whether Justinn Moultrie’s charges are connected to the same location or animals linked to his father’s case remain unclear.

The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) conducted a significant crackdown that led to the arrests, where SLED’s Dogfighting Unit executed a search warrant at Spencer Moultrie’s property located in Seabrook on August 11. During the operation, ten pit bull-type dogs were seized, and veterinary assessments concluded that nine of these dogs demonstrated scarring consistent with organized dogfighting. Additionally, various items related to dogfighting were uncovered at the scene, although detailed descriptions of these items have not been disclosed.

All ten dogs are currently under the care of the Humane World for Animals, a nonprofit organization dedicated to animal welfare, for essential veterinary care. The dogs were found chained within a dirt clearing in the woods, using barrels and makeshift shelters for protection, indicating a severe lack of adequate living conditions.

Just a week following the search, SLED petitioned Justinn Moultrie for contributions towards the care of the ten dogs seized, requesting an initial payment of approximately $31,600, along with monthly payments of around $16,700 for ongoing care. As of now, this petition has not received judicial approval.

The arrests are part of SLED’s ongoing efforts to tackle dogfighting issues across South Carolina. The Dogfighting Unit was established in 2023, and during the previous year, South Carolina experienced a notable increase in dogfighting-related activities, including 60 arrests and the rescue of 231 dogs from suspected fighting rings. However, Beaufort and Jasper counties have not been mentioned in jurisdictions with recent dogfighting cases.

In addition to these efforts, the Animal Legal Defense Fund has recognized South Carolina as the “most improved” state regarding animal protection laws in its 2024 report. SLED has urged the public to report any suspected dogfighting activities to assist in their crackdown on this criminal operation.

FAQ

What charges have been filed against Justinn and Spencer Moultrie?

Justinn Moultrie faces nine violations of the Animal Fighting and Baiting Act and nine counts of animal mistreatment, with most charges being felonies. Spencer Moultrie has one violation of the same act and one count of animal mistreatment.

What was discovered at Spencer Moultrie’s property?

At Spencer Moultrie’s property, ten pit bull-type dogs were seized, with nine showing signs of scarring indicative of organized dogfighting. Several items related to dogfighting were also found, although specific details were not provided.

How can the public assist in fighting dogfighting?

The public can report any suspected dogfighting activities to SLED’s Dogfighting Unit to support their efforts in combating this illegal operation.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature	Details
Individuals Charged	Justinn Benjamin Moultrie and Spencer Lamont Moultrie
Charges Faced	Justinn: 9 felonies, 1 misdemeanor; Spencer: 1 felony, 1 misdemeanor
Date of Arrests	August 11 and August 26, 2023
Location of Incident	Seabrook, Beaufort County
Dogs Seized	10 pit bull-type dogs
Condition of Dogs	9 dogs showed scarring; all received care from Humane World for Animals
SLED’s Dogfighting Unit Establishment	2023
Previous Year Arrests	60 arrests and 231 dogs rescued from suspected fighting rings in South Carolina