(Columbia) March 18, 2004 - The attorney general's office wants to put an end to dog fighting in South Carolina.

On March 3rd, investigators seized six pit bulls from a home along Saluda River Road in Columbia. The animals were involved in an illegal dog fighting ring. Officials say they were clearly the victims of physical abuse.

State officials announced a new initiative Thursday to shut down illegal dog fighting in South Carolina. Investigators say dogs are trained to fight to the death with huge jackpots at stake. In many cases, drug trafficking is also part of the operation.

In the past it's been tough for law enforcement to crack down on the rings because they use websites and secret methods to put out fighting times and locations.

But now humanitarian groups are raising money to help pay for a SLED agent and an assistant attorney general dedicated to investigating and prosecuting the dog fighting cases.

Henry McMaster, SC Attorney General, "No where is there an effort like this where we have this sort of approach where you have the government and private sector teaming up for part of South Carolina life."

Humanitarian groups have raised $4,500 so far, and hope to raise about $110,000 for the prosecution of cases.

updated 7:30am by Chris Rees