Police ask for public's help in tracking down dogfighting suspect

CLEVELAND - A manhunt is underway in Cleveland, for a man suspected of being involved in a dogfighting ring. Cleveland police are asking for the public's help in tracking down Collin Rand Jr.

Police issued the arrest warrant Saturday afternoon as a result of an investigation earlier this week into a dog fighting operation set up at 745 E. 91st. Street.

On Thursday, Cleveland police officers raided the home and confiscated 16 puppies, mostly pit bulls, and seven or eight adult dogs. Some of the dogs had deep scars on their faces, while others were covered in bloody scratches. No arrests have been made, though authorities called the conditions horrifying.

According to police, it appeared as though the dogs were being conditioned to fight, using weighted collars and a treadmill with wood sides that forced the dogs to run. Even seasoned police officers were disgusted by what they saw

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Collin Rand Jr. is asked to call the Cleveland Division of Police Fifth District Detective Bureau at 216.623.5518. Anonymous information can be given to Crime Stoppers by calling 216.252.7463 or Text messaging to Text TIP657 plus your message to Crimes (274637).