Rock Hill, South Carolina, January 17, 2026
In a significant animal welfare case, a mother and son in Rock Hill have been arrested for running a dogfighting operation at their home. Thalia Lavonne Feemster, 67, and her son, Corey Dezette Hardin, 35, face multiple serious charges, including animal torture and criminal conspiracy. The arrests were made after authorities found 11 abused dogs and signs of dogfighting equipment during a search conducted by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division. The ongoing investigation highlights the severe issue of dogfighting in South Carolina.
Rock Hill Mother and Son Arrested on Dogfighting Charges
Rock Hill, South Carolina – A mother and her son have been arrested on multiple charges related to dogfighting activities at their residence in York County. The arrests followed a thorough investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).
Details of the Arrests
On January 6, 2026, SLED agents executed a search warrant at the home of 67-year-old Thalia Lavonne Feemster and her 35-year-old son, Corey Dezette Hardin. During the search, authorities discovered 11 dogs exhibiting signs of abuse, including open wounds, oral trauma, and malnutrition. A veterinarian confirmed that the injuries were consistent with dogfighting practices. Additionally, items commonly associated with dogfighting were found on the property. Feemster claimed that the dogs belonged to her son.
Charges Faced by the Suspects
Feemster has been charged with:
- Ill Treatment of Animals (Torture)
- Criminal Conspiracy
Hardin faces a more extensive list of charges, including:
- 10 counts of Animal Fighting or Baiting
- 10 counts of Ill Treatment of Animals (Torture)
- Criminal Conspiracy
- Possession of Firearms or Ammunition by a Prohibited Person
Both individuals have been booked into the Moss Justice Center. The case is set to be prosecuted by the 16th Circuit Solicitor’s Office. Authorities have not disclosed the current condition of the dogs or their whereabouts following the investigation.
Background on Dogfighting in South Carolina
Dogfighting remains a significant issue in South Carolina. In April 2025, the ASPCA assisted SLED in rescuing over 150 dogs from suspected dogfighting operations across Dillon and Marion Counties. The rescued animals were found with untreated injuries and scarring consistent with dogfighting.
Legal Framework and Penalties
South Carolina law imposes severe penalties for those involved in dogfighting. Convictions can lead to substantial fines and imprisonment. The state continues to collaborate with organizations like the ASPCA to combat this illegal activity and protect animal welfare.
Community Response and Ongoing Efforts
The arrests in Rock Hill highlight the ongoing efforts by law enforcement and animal welfare organizations to address and prevent dogfighting in the region. Community awareness and vigilance are crucial in identifying and reporting such activities to ensure the safety and well-being of animals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What charges have been filed against Thalia Lavonne Feemster and Corey Dezette Hardin?
Thalia Lavonne Feemster has been charged with Ill Treatment of Animals (Torture) and Criminal Conspiracy. Corey Dezette Hardin faces 10 counts of Animal Fighting or Baiting, 10 counts of Ill Treatment of Animals (Torture), Criminal Conspiracy, and Possession of Firearms or Ammunition by a Prohibited Person.
How many dogs were rescued during the investigation?
During the investigation, authorities discovered 11 dogs exhibiting signs of abuse, including open wounds, oral trauma, and malnutrition.
What is the current condition of the rescued dogs?
Authorities have not disclosed the current condition of the dogs or their whereabouts following the investigation.
What penalties do dogfighting convictions carry in South Carolina?
South Carolina law imposes severe penalties for those involved in dogfighting, including substantial fines and imprisonment.
How can the community help prevent dogfighting?
Community awareness and vigilance are crucial in identifying and reporting dogfighting activities to ensure the safety and well-being of animals.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Rock Hill, South Carolina |
| Suspects | Thalia Lavonne Feemster (67) and Corey Dezette Hardin (35) |
| Charges | Multiple counts of animal fighting, animal torture, criminal conspiracy, and firearm possession by a prohibited person |
| Rescued Animals | 11 dogs exhibiting signs of abuse |
| Investigation Date | January 6, 2026 |
| Prosecution | 16th Circuit Solicitor’s Office |
| Community Impact | Highlighting ongoing efforts to combat dogfighting in South Carolina |
Now Happening on X
- @Queen_City_News (January 16, 2026, 4:38 PM) A Rock Hill man was arrested on over 20 charges related to dogfighting, with his mother also taken into custody as part of the SLED investigation. View on X
- @theobserver (January 14, 2026, 1:50 PM) A South Carolina judge dismissed a man’s lawsuit against Rock Hill police stemming from a viral video arrest. View on X
- @RHHerald (January 14, 2026, 2:20 PM) A South Carolina judge has dropped a man’s lawsuit regarding his arrest by Rock Hill police captured in a viral video. View on X
- @theobserver (January 15, 2026, 12:50 PM) Another Charlotte-based manufacturer is relocating across the state line to Rock Hill for expansion. View on X
- @RHHerald (January 15, 2026, 1:30 PM) A Charlotte manufacturer is moving operations to Rock Hill, highlighting economic growth in the area. View on X
- @RHHerald (January 13, 2026, 7:30 AM) South Carolina police report a man was killed in a crash and are seeking the driver who fled the scene. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
