Bronx Super Indicted in Dog-Fighting Ring

Last month, authorities seized dozens of dogs, including puppies, from the building

The superintendent of a Bronx building was indicted Wednesday on animal-cruelty charges in connection to an alleged dog-fighting ring.

Last month, authorities seized dozens of dogs, including puppies, from the building, 1254 Sherman Ave., where they allege the pups were being trained to fight.

Raul Sanchez, 57, the building's super, has been charged by the Bronx DA with 63 counts, including 13 felonies, connected to the staging of dog fights, breeding, training and selling dogs to be engaged in fights. The most serious charge could bring up to four years in prison.

Police said the building's basement served as a makeshift arena with an estimated capacity for 100 spectators. The dogs, ranging in ages from 12 weeks to five years, were found in cages and had various injuries indicative of dog fighting.

Investigators found harnesses and muzzles, dog treadmills, a loaded handgun, syringes and 22 wooden crates in the apartment. A fighting ring and carpeting were stained with blood, officials said.

Sanchez is being held on $50,000 cash bail. Attorney information was not immediately available.

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