Dogs Rescued from 'Face of Evil' Recovering at Chicago Heights Shelter

Article updated on Dec. 7, 2012 at 9:41 a.m.

Lorenzo's eye bulged out of its socket as he lay isolated in a back room at the South Suburban Humane Society (SSHS).

He's a dog nice enough to cuddle up on a stranger's lap. But when it comes to other dogs, Lorenzo only knows “attack,” according to Emily Klehm, the shelter's executive director.

That’s because Lorenzo was raised specifically to fight other dogs for human spectacle. And that’s exactly what he was doing at an old Dolton warehouse.

Eight suspects were arrested in connection with the operation after Cook County Sheriff's police received a tip about the fights.

Police notified SSHS about the dogs and investigators were sent to the scene, Klehm said. They returned with all seven rescued dogs.

"We’ve never really taken in dogs directly from a dog-fighting ring like this before, so it’s a different and kind of a shocking experience for our staff," Klehm said.

All of the dogs are in various stages of neglect and have battle scars, according to Klehm.

As for Lorenzo, it’s looking like he may lose his right eye.

"It’s absolutely heartbreaking for us," Klehm said. "It’s truly the face of evil when you see someone can do this to a completely innocent soul."

SSHS is asking for donations to assist in the care of the seven dogs. Besides the money needed to assist with medical treatment, the shelter needs bleach, blankets, laundry detergent, paper towels, dog food and disposable gloves. 

To make a monetary donation, visit the South Suburban Humane Society website.

Editor's note: This article initially stated there were ten dogs rescued from the Dolton dog-fighting operation. There were actually seven dogs rescued.