COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has arrested four individuals on charges connected to animal fighting/baiting, ill treatment of animals, criminal conspiracy, and drug related charges as a result of a multi-county investigation.
SLED turned over 47 dogs and puppies from three properties located in Chester and Lancaster counties that had been suspected of dogfighting to Humane World of Animals, formerly the Humane Society of the United States.
Multiple dogs showed signs consistent with dogfighting, including infected puncture wounds, and were found to be underweight, infested with fleas, and some covered in scars and needing veterinary attention. Humane World for Animals has assisted SLED with a number of dogfighting-related investigations in 2025, rescuing approximately 90 dogs from seven South Carolina properties just since June.
“What we found this week is deeply disturbing but through the efforts of these partnerships, we have taken immediate action that dismantled a horrific animal abuse operation,” said Chester County Sheriff Max Dorsey. “Animal cruelty has no place in our community and it will not be tolerated.”
The following individuals are facing charges as of November 6, 2025:
Diara Charles Talford, 33, was charged with seven counts of Animal Fighting or Baiting, two counts of Ill Treatment of Animals, Criminal Conspiracy, Possession of a Firearm, and Possession of a Weapon During a Violent Crime, two counts of Trafficking in Cocaine – 10 grams or More but Less than 28 grams – 3rd Offense, Distribution of Cocaine Base – 3rd Offense, and other related drug charges.
Devin Dashaud Mobley, 32, was charged with ten counts of Animal Fighting or Baiting, Ill Treatment of Animals, Criminal Conspiracy, and a related drug charge.
Zion Damir Hairston, 22, was charged with ten counts of Animal Fighting or Baiting and Criminal Conspiracy.
Nicos Kendrell Little, 37, was charged with eight counts of Animal Fighting or Baiting, Criminal Conspiracy, and Ill Treatment of Animals.
“SLED’s Dogfighting Unit continues to aggressively pursue anyone who is involved in this illegal activity in South Carolina,” said SLED Chief Mark Keel. “This most recent operation resulted in the rescue of 47 dogs that were taken out of a cruel and abusive environment along with the seizure of firearms and drugs, all of which only benefited the criminals who were arrested today. I am grateful for the partnership SLED has with Humane World for Animals and their ongoing dedication to assisting our Dogfighting Unit.”
Most of the dogs were pit bull-type and found without proper housing and tethered by heavy logging chains. Some were left without access to food and/or clean water.
While executing the warrant at Talford’s residence on November 5, investigators located a clear bag containing approximately 12.8 grams of suspected cocaine, a clear bag containing approximately 19.6 grams of suspected crack cocaine, a clear bag containing approximately 3.3 grams of suspected psilocybin mushrooms, a clear bag of white pills consistent with
