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KERSHAW COUNTY, SC (WACH) - A Kershaw County man is in jail after being accused of using dogs for fighting.

Kershaw County Sheriff Jim Matthews says narcotics officers arrested Burton Lushawn Mincey, 42, Monday and charged him with 20 counts of ill treatment of animals, 20 counts of owning an animal for the purpose of fighting, and 20 counts possession of a stolen vehicle, narcotics violations and possession of a pistol by a person prohibited.

Authorities say Mincey originally identified himself through photo identification as Robert Wright, his associate.

According to Matthews, KCSO narcotics officers obtained a search warrant for Wright’s home on Barron Dekalb Road in Camden and requested assistance from the Kershaw County Animal Control, SC Probation Parole and Pardon and the SPCA. During the course of the search, officers found 12 adult pit bull mix dogs and 8 puppies that were being housed and trained for use in dog fighting. The dogs were malnourished, abused and were living in deplorable conditions.

Deputies seized heavy logging chains tied to the dogs, shock collars, bite sticks (used to discipline and antagonize the dogs), medical and steroid injection items and treadmills inside a dark, enclosed trailer where the dogs were sometimes housed.

Deputies also located a stolen motorcycle, a pistol and paraphernalia used to make and distribute crack cocaine.

The dogs were taken by Kershaw County Animal Control and are being cared for at the Walter Crowe Animal Shelter in Camden.

Wright has previous alcohol and drug arrests and was convicted of assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature (reduced from attempted murder) in Lancaster County. He is on probation for the assault charge. He is currently detained at the Kershaw County Detention Center and is awaiting a bond hearing. Sheriff Matthews said Mincey lived along, but he is not sure how long the activities have been going on or if anyone else was involved.

Officials at the Walter Crowe Animal Shelter tell WACH two of the dogs were put down by Kershaw County Animal Control authorities. The other dogs will be rehabilitated and will go through the court system to see if they will be given a chance.

Shelter officials say with the new dogs, the shelter is even more understaffed and tightly strapped financially. If you would like to donate, visit here.