Investigators say 150 pit bulls will no longer have to fight for their lives. Five of the dog's owners are under federal indictment for running a dog fighting ring. Investigators say 35-year-old Jack Ruppel is one of five Missouri men out on bond and awaiting their day in court. Members of the Humane Society of the United States say the blood sport is vicious. Humane society officials say many dogs die from blood loss, shock or dehydration.

Empty kennels are tucked behind tall weeds in Eldon, Mo. Fences, chains, barrels and dog houses make up “Ozark Hillbillys Kennel” on Juniper Road. Federal investigators say a dog named “Freak” was bred and trained to fight in the almost hidden kennel. According to the indictment, Ruppel would destroy any dog that didn't measure up in a fight. Ruppel is accused of selling aggressive pit bull terriers for $4,000-5,000. On October 31, 2008 investigators say Ruppel sold a male named “Winchester for $4,000 along with a treadmill for training and a steroid mixture of “dextromethasone” to treat injuries.

When KSPR arrived on Juniper Road, people claiming to be family members tried to force us off the road. A sheriff’s department captain was called to inform the family members of the media are allowed on the road. Family members did not want to be interviewed. They also would not say if Ruppel returned to Eldon, Mo., after posting bond.

Neighbors say they aren't surprised by the arrests. "I knew he had pit bulls but I didn't know about the fighting," Neighbor Robert Weed says. Weed says he's hard of hearing and has not heard training or fighting. Weed says he does see a lot of traffic. "Around 2:00 a.m. cars are going up and down up and down these windy roads," Weed says. "I disagree with dog fighting 100%, it shouldn't happen.”

For now, “Ozark Hillbillys Kennel” sits empty. The humane society is caring for all the dogs. On Friday, two other suspects in northern Missouri pleaded not guilty today in a western district courtroom. If convicted, each count carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and/or up to a $250,000 fine.