Sapulpa, Okla. ? Creek County deputies have broken up a dog-fighting ring and confiscated 53 canines, many injured.

Most of the pit bull dogs were chained on rural property west of Sapulpa near three fighting arenas, including one inside a barn. The indoor arena’s sideboards were caked with blood, said Creek County investigator Cpl. Terry Burton.

Four people were arrested during a raid on the property Wednesday.

Creek County officials believe it’s the first time authorities have arrested anyone for maintaining or promoting dog fights since the law outlawing them went on the books in 1961.

Deputies who raided the residence also found 50 grams of marijuana and several firearms. They believe the dog-fighting ring operated for two or three years.

Those arrested were James Fiarris, 55, Jamme A. Fiarris, 54, both of Sapulpa, Roger M. Scott, 50, of Tulsa, and Steven King, also know as “DJ Spinmaster,” of Broken Arrow.

Scott, who works for the city of Tulsa, was found at the residence with a dog that apparently had been in a fight and was severely injured. He drove there in a city of Tulsa truck, deputies said.

Authorities received a tip about three weeks ago and began investigating, Burton said.