More than 60 dogs removed from triple slaying site

BOISE, Idaho — Authorities and a group of volunteers Monday helped remove and ship more than 60 pit bulls from the scene of a triple slaying and dogfighting operation in southeastern Idaho. Investigators also wrapped up their work at the small, rural ranch property located just outside the town of Holbrook, near the Idaho-Utah line, Oneida County Sheriff Jeff Semrad said. The bodies of Brent L. Christensen, 61, Trent Jon Christensen, 32, and Yavette Chivon Carter, 27, were discovered at the property Friday. Two children, both unharmed, were also found and have been placed in in the custody of a grandparent. Meanwhile, the search for those responsible continues. Semrad said there was no evidence suggesting a robbery, leading to the belief the victims knew the killer or killers. The focus Monday was also on rescuing 64 pit bulls from the property and transporting them to the Idaho Humane Society office on Boise where they will get care and be evaluated for adoption. Witnesses described the scene as disturbing and said many of the dogs had scars suggesting fighting activity or injuries including broken bones and severe facial lacerations, the Idaho State Journal reported. The dogs were discovered in two enclosures at the house along with evidence of an organized dogfighting ring. Semrad also said investigators recovered evidence of a pit bull carcass in the freezer of the home. Authorities also discovered a sophisticated marijuana growing operation at the site. Cash and 38 marijuana plants worth $95,000 were in the house.