Organised and Commercial Animal Cruelty

The Inspectorate carries out research, gathers evidence and analyses animal cruelty data that comes to light online or via social media channels.  This work also involves the broad collection and monitoring of online animal sales activity, in-depth exploration of relevant networks in the animal breeding and fighting communities and mapping of associations across networks of interest.

The team works closely with external law enforcement agencies on these investigations, including Victoria Police, state and local governments, and federal agencies.

Types of organised animal cruelty investigated

Today, investigations undertaken by the inspectorate includes:

Inspectors work together with an Intelligence Analyst to collect and analyse information and develop it into intelligence that can lead to full-scale investigations into organised cruelty and crime. These investigations are often large-scale and may involve several properties or interconnected networks of individuals. The complexity of these cases means that data gathering and effective investigation, planning and execution can be multi-faceted and time-consuming. When there’s sufficient evidence, Inspectors can move in to disrupt the activity, rescue and remove animals and prepare a criminal case for the prosecutions team.

These complex cases can take months or even years to gather enough evidence to bring a case to court.

Chicken feet

Dog fighting and cock fighting

Kittens in a carrier

Illegal breeding, rearing and selling 

Tip off

RSPCA Victoriarelies on information from the public to gather intelligence to identify and investigate cases of potential animal cruelty. If you have any information on organised animal fighting or illegal breeding, rearing and selling, please make a report through our tip off line. Even if it’s just a suspicion, we want to hear from you.

Large-scale serious, organised and commercial animal cruelty operates in secrecy and is often hidden from view. These activities can be highly networked, often operating in multiple locations across Victoria and interstate.

Remember, every little bit helps. Sometimes things that may seem insignificant can be the missing element in an investigation. Your information may help us successfully investigate the next important case and ensure those most vulnerable are protected.

All information disclosed is completely confidential. While every piece of information provided helps RSPCA Victoria take action, you are never expected to put yourself at risk to get these details. Your safety always comes first. 

Make a report now

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