30+ dogs rescued from alleged fighting ring run by Horry County man, police say

Horry County police conduct intakes of the 36 pit bulls that were rescued from an alleged dog fighting ring on June 1. Provided/Horry County Police Department.

CONWAY — An Horry County man faces dozens of charges after police say they broke up a dogfighting ring he allegedly ran out of his Longs home.

Photo of Jemar Chestnut. Provided.

Jemar Chestnut, 41, was arrested June 1 and charged with 36 counts of harboring animals for fighting, 29 counts of ill treatment of animals and a drug manufacturing charge.

Horry County police discovered the dogfighting ring during an unrelated search of his Sunny Heights Road home around 9 a.m. on June 1, according to police reports.

Police found 36 pit bulls at the home. The dogs, some of which have special needs, were taken to the Horry County Animal Care Center. They are not available for adoption, foster or visitation at this time, according to shelter officials.

The arrival of dozens of additional animals has caused the shelter to reach capacity.

"We are unable to accept strays or owner surrenders until more adoptables have found homes or rescue," officials said. "We will not euthanize for space."

While searching Chestnut's home, officers noticed that 29 dogs had scars and wounds on their faces, heads, necks and legs "consistent with continuous face-to-face dog fighting," according to Chestnut's arrest warrants.

"Paraphernalia located on the property corresponds with that used for the purpose of dog fighting and breeding," according to one of his arrest warrants.

Officials said June 5 that the investigation remains ongoing.

While no bail has been set yet for the drug charge, Chestnut's bail is $13,000 in total for the 65 animal-related charges. He remains at the J. Reuben Long Detention Center, according to booking records.

Meanwhile, the public is being encouraged to adopt other adoptable animals from the Horry County Animal Care Center or donate supplies such as dog food, treats and cleaning supplies.

"The HCACC team appreciates the patience and understanding of our Horry County community as we work to uphold the animal welfare ordinances and provide quality care to animals in need," officials said.

Donations can be left in the dropbox outside the animal shelter, which is located at 1923 Industrial Park Road in Conway.

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Follow Nicole Ziege on Twitter @NicoleZiege.

Nicole Ziege covers city and county government and politics for The Post & Courier Myrtle Beach. She is originally from Kentucky, and now lives in Myrtle Beach.

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