HOLBROOK, Idaho -- Just over the Utah border in Holbrook, Idaho, police are still trying to unravel a complicated case that involves a triple murder, a dog fighting ring and a drug operation.
Three adults were found shot to death inside a home off Highway 38 on Friday. Two children were also found inside, alive and unharmed. The victims have been identified as Trent Jon Christensen, 32, Yavette Chivon Carter, 27, and Brent L. Christensen, 61.
A search of the property uncovered not only the murders, but up to 70 pit bull dogs and puppies, and approximately $100,000 worth of marijuana plants.
According to the Oneida County Sheriff’s Department, the animals were removed from the property Monday morning. They were all taken to the Idaho State Humane Society in Boise. Sheriff Jeff Semrad said the animals were either being sold, or raised to fight in a ring found outside the home.
The dogs will have to be evaluated before it’s determined what kind of rehabilitation, if any, they will require. Temma Martin of Best Friends Animal Society in southern Utah said when her shelter received 22 of the Michael Vick fight ring animals, many just needed proper training and affection.
“Our experience in cases like this is that many of these dogs are readily adoptable,” she said. “They don't need any type of rehabilitation. They basically just need to be spayed and neutered and socialized and loved like any other pet.”
Police planned to secure the home Sunday night, but said they had finished their investigation on the property. According to Semrad, they do not have any suspects. Anyone with information is asked to contact the department at 208-766-2251.
