Create a National Animal Fighting Registry

We, the undersigned, request that the United States Congress enact legislation to create a National Animal Fighting Registry.

This registry would create a database of people convicted of animal fighting in a court of law. The registry would require that those convicted of animal fighting update their address information and that this information be made publicly available as is currently done with Sex Offender Registries.

The blood sports of animal fighting pose unique dangers to communities since those engaged in these blood sports often acquire small animals and pets through deceptive means or theft to use as "bait" to train fighting animals.

Furthermore, those engaged in these activities may have animals that are dangerous to pets and children due to their aggressive training and nature.

Animal fighters have been shown to have contacts with other criminal enterprises, in particular gambling and illegal firearms trade.

It is only right that the citizens of the United States be made aware of convicted animal fighters living in their neighborhoods so that they can take precautions to protect themselves, their children, and their pets.