Report: Masked Men Torture, Cut Off Alleged Dog Fighting Breeder's Ear

DETROIT (WWJ) -- Police are on the lookout for three armed men after a man -- who is believed to have been breeding dogs for fighting -- was found tied up and tortured.

The 52-year-old victim was outside feeding his dogs when he was confronted by the three masked men at his property on Mackay in Detroit, according to FOX 2.

The victim was then reportedly forced into the home and tied up alongside two other tenants. The masked men then reportedly beat and tortured the man -- cutting off one of his ears -- and demanded money.

One of the victim's family members told FOX 2 that the assailants stabbed him with ice picks and told the victim that they would rape his wife and daughter.

Police said that the attack could have been personal.

Up to 16 pit bulls were found tied up in the yard of the property living in "filth," and at least a dozen more were found in the basement of the home, according to the report.

The victim reportedly has several properties housing pit bulls, but family members denied allegations that he was involved in dog fighting.

The man remains hospitalized. An investigation is ongoing.

According to the report, the breeder is expected to face several misdemeanor charges for the "blight."