McCracken County Sheriff Jon Hayden held a special meeting Monday night to address Internet speculation about potential dog thefts and missing pets reported to area sheriff’s departments and the Kentucky State Police.
Hayden allayed some fears about the missing pets, saying there is no known dog fighting ring in the region.
“If there were some organized dog fighting occurring in our area, we would be hearing about it,” Hayden said. “Because we have folks that assist us that provide us information.”

Hayden said law enforcement agencies are sharing information. He said if a pet goes missing, report it to local law enforcement or animal control.
Residents in attendance voiced their apprehension to report missing animals to police because they feel they are belittled for calls. Hayden assured those in attendance that missing pet reports are taken seriously.