A Berkeley County man, KJ Rhode, is raising awareness about the lack of protections for hunting dogs in South Carolina after his dog, Highball, was shot while chasing a deer.
The incident occurred in the Francis Marion National Forest when Michael Trent Williams allegedly shot Highball after the dog crossed onto private property.
Williams faces charges for shooting and killing a hunting dog, as well as for removing dog collars. He was released on bond following his arrest.
Rhode expressed frustration over the lenient penalties for harming hunting dogs, noting that offenders may face only minimal fines or even no penalties.
Attorney Stephan Futeral highlighted the inconsistency in judicial outcomes, suggesting that a stricter law could provide more uniform penalties.
Since September 1, 2023, the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources has issued 48 charges related to dog hunting, including four for harming dogs.
Rhode, advocating for stronger animal protection laws, emphasized that hunting dogs deserve the same care and respect as any other pets. Williams’ court date is set for December 2.