In the dogged pursuit of justice

A new reward program started today.

Its goal is to lead to the arrests and convictions of those who are involved in illegal animal fighting in Pennsylvania. Specifically, it's targeted toward dogfighting.

The program was announced by state Attorney General Tom Corbett and The Humane Society of the United States. It's made possible through a grant by the Holland M. Ware Charitable Foundation.

Up to $5,000 is being offered for the information leading to an arrest and conviction.

According to a news release issued by the Attorney General's Office, the Pennsylvania SPCA received more than 400 complaints about dogfighting between January and June. The group received more than 245 such complaints for all of last year.

Dog or other animal fighting in Pennsylvania is a third-degree felony, punishable upon conviction with a prison term of up to seven years and a fine up to $15,000.

Anyone with information about animal fighting are encouraged to call their local police or call The Humane Society of the United States hotline at 877-847-4787.

Dogfighting and other forms of animal fighting have been around for a long time, but it wasn't until Michael Vick's arrest, conviction and jail time that this has really become a national issue.

In one sense, it's a shame it had to take Vick's high-profile case to put the spotlight on the crime of animal fighting. But better late than never.