A Millville man has been arrested in an alleged dog-fighting ring centered in Cumberland County.
Nine people were arrested in April and 66 dogs rescued as part of the investigation
Robert Elliott Sr., 47, of Millville, was arrested Wednesday, and is expected in Camden federal court later this afternoon to hear the charges.
Elliott lived in a residence with Frank Nichols, who was among those previously arrested.
During a search there, law enforcement seized 13 live pit bull-type dogs, including seven that were kept on heavy chains in a wooded area behind the home, according to the charges.
Several of the dogs had scars and other signs of injury. Wiretaps of phone calls between the alleged conspirators had them bragging about the harm their dogs did to those they fought.
Investigators also found break sticks used to get dogs to release holds, a so-called "rape rack" used to hold a female dog while a male mates with her, a box of veterinary supplies and dog pedigrees and printouts from fighting registries, U.S. Attorney Paul Fishman said.
Elliott claimed to own several fo the pieces of dog-fighting paraphernalia.
The arrest is part of an ongoing investigation dubbed Grand Champion, the name given to dogs who have won multiple fights.
