DMX Next Big Name Linked To Dogfighting

KPNX in Arizona reports that rapper DMX’s home in Maricopa County, Arizona was raided yesterday by the Sheriff’s Department and 12 distressed pitbulls were removed. DMX was not at home at the time. A large cache of weapons was found in the home as well.

DMX’s criminal history includes a 2002 guilty plea to animal cruelty charges.

Murray Richman, DMX’s attorney, said the incident was all the cause of the Arizona heat – someone reported that the dogs were at risk because of the extreme temperatures. He told TMZ,

“Earl [Simmons, a.k.a DMX] has a caretaker, who obviously wasn’t taking care. Earl loves those dogs.” Richman added that DMX isn’t even in Az and hasn’t been there for several months because he’s off working on a project.