Florence homes possible targets for dog fighting ring

The Florence Police Department is increasing its patrols in certain areas of the city where pets might be targets for dog fighters.

Florence police received a call from a concerned resident regarding a post on social media about dog fighting in the area, according to Carlos Raines of the Florence Police Department.

Another city resident called Wednesday and said she had found a piece of tape stuck to her mailbox along with a number of neighbors' mailboxes, Raines said. These pieces of tape could be a way for those involved in dog fighting to mark houses where there are desirable dogs.

Raines said residents need to be aware of what is going on and keep a close eye on their pets.

"Be very careful of your animals," Raines said. "If they're out, someone might have the opportunity to take them if they tried."

As of Wednesday morning, there had been no reports of missing or stolen dogs in the city, Raines said.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the Florence Police Department at 843-676-8831.