Aiding McMaster's campaign

Since Atty. Gen. Henry McMaster began his campaign against dog fighting three years ago, his task force has made more than 50 arrests resulting in 20 convictions. That campaign, given strong support by the John Ancrum Chapter of the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, has sent the clear message that dog fighting won't be tolerated in South Carolina.

The Humane Society of the United States recently joined the campaign by pledging funds to double the reward, to $5,000, for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those involved with animal fighting. It is a welcome acknowledgment of the good work done in this state against illegal blood sports.

With increased penalties provided by the Legislature, it's safe to say that dog fighting and the criminal culture that perpetuates it will continue to face increasing difficulty operating below the radar. Gambling and the sale of illegal drugs are part of the dog fighting scene, as the work of the task force has revealed.

Mr. McMaster has helped uncover a sordid enterprise that is hardly confined to the borders of the state, and has helped bring national attention to what the attorney general aptly describes as a "brutal crime."

The campaign is ongoing, with more than 30 cases pending. The Humane Society's pledge is welcome support toward eradicating an affront to civilized standards.