Reward for information after dogs found tortured and killed in Will County climbs to $27,000

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- Illinois, USA -

On March 3, 2026, Crete Township Highway Maintenance workers came across black garbage bags along a wooded ditch near Kings Road and Norfolk Avenue. After taking the bags back to their facility, the workers discovered that they contained the remains of six dogs.

Will County Animal Protection Services Administrator Anna Payton said the Pitbull-type dogs weighed between 45 and 55 pounds and were all determined to be between 9 and 18 months old. According to Payton, the dogs showed signs of torture and evidence consistent with their possible use in dogfighting before they were brutally killed and callously discarded in garbage bags.

Officials said the dogs had not been humanely euthanized. However, the exact circumstances and method of their deaths were not disclosed.

According to Will County State's Attorney James Glasgow, investigators encountered difficulties with the evidence. He said that evidence had been contaminated, preventing investigators from using DNA evidence.

Since the discovery, several organizations have teamed up to offer a reward for information leading to the arrest of those responsible for the torture and killing of the six dogs.

In April, First Secure Bank Group offered a $5,000 reward. According to a press release issued by the Will County State's Attorney's Office on April 20, Jay Bergman, chairman of First Secure Bank Group, said: "We are offering up to a $5,000 reward for information that leads to an arrest. Doing the right thing strengthens our entire community. Our community deserves answers, and we are proud to stand alongside law enforcement in this effort."

The Roselle-based nonprofit Pets and Vets USA, which rescues Pitbulls and trains them as service dogs for veterans, subsequently added another $20,000 to the reward.

In a subsequent announcement, Glasgow said the reward had increased to $27,000.

Glasgow said: "This is not just an animal cruelty case—this is a public safety issue. The level of violence in this case is deeply disturbing, and research has consistently shown a strong link between individuals who harm animals and those who go on to commit violence against people. There is zero tolerance for this kind of cruelty in Will County—and we will not stop until there is justice."

To support the ongoing investigation, authorities are partnering with Will County Crime Stoppers and urging anyone with information to come forward.

David Silverman of Will County Crime Stoppers said: "You can submit a tip without ever giving your name. We offer multiple ways to report information, and you may be eligible for a reward. If you know something, say something—your tip could make all the difference. Call our hotline at 800-323-6734."

Deputy Chief Jeremy Zdzinicki with the Will County Sheriff's Office said: "We are investigating this case and following up on all information. We need the public's help. If you saw anything unusual, if you noticed suspicious activity, or if you have any information at all, we urge you to come forward."

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