The discovery was made on March 3. Officials made information about the case public as they continue to search for the people behind the dog killings. The animals, they believe, may have been used for dog fighting.
It was a gruesome discovery. The dogs were found inside garbage bags, dumped near the intersection of Kings Road and Norfolk Avenue in Crete Township.
"These dogs deserved better. Our community deserves better," said Anna Payton with Will County Animal Protection Services.
Will County officials said they have had no luck finding those responsible.
"They were younger dogs, should have been healthy in the prime of life. They showed signs of what could be dogfighting. And apparently, they outlived their usefulness," said Will County State's Attorney James Glasgow.
According to the state's attorney, workers with the Crete Township Highway Department found the dogs. The workers initially did not realize what was in the bags.
"They threw them in their truck, went back to their station. Thankfully, someone looked inside, or they would just go in the garbage," Glasgow said.
The pit bulls all exhibited bite marks, which is what led investigators to believe the animals might have been used for dog fighting.
"It's a hidden, secretive kind of activity and event, so it's not generally known to the public as to when those activities are occurring. That's why it can be very challenging for law enforcement," Payton said.
The state's attorney's office would not say how the dogs were killed. At this point, they have no leads and are asking for the public's help.
A $5,000 reward is being offered for any information that leads to an arrest.