Dozens of dogs saved from dogfighting ring

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Authorities rescued 36 pit bulls from a dogfighting ring on eastern Long Island, New York. (Attorney General's Press Office)

WYANDANCH, N.Y. (AP) — New York law enforcement authorities said three men have been arrested on animal cruelty and dogfighting charges on eastern Long Island.

Raids based on search warrants that began in late September and concluded Wednesday resulted in the rescue of 36 pit bulls ranging in age from one week to seven years.

State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said the dogfighting ring had been operating in Wyandanch and other Suffolk County locations since at least March.

Three Wyandanch men were arraigned Wednesday and Thursday on felony charges.

Prosecutors said they each operated a so-called kennel that actually served as staging ground for fighting.

They said the dogs were found chained in deplorable conditions.

Three dogs had to be euthanized. The ASPCA hopes the rest can be retrained and adopted once they heal.