A Hanson, Massachusetts resident was taken into custody today for his alleged involvement in operating a dogfighting ring from his home. John Murphy, 50, faces nine counts under the federal Animal Welfare Act for keeping animals with the intent to engage them in fights.
Investigations revealed Murphy possessed equipment typically used in dogfighting activities, including medical supplies, training paraphernalia, and devices to forcibly breed dogs. Authorities also discovered photos and videos on Murphy’s Facebook account suggesting involvement in dogfighting, including images of dogs with injuries typical of fighting and equipment used to condition dogs for fighting.
In a related action, the government is seeking the forfeiture of 13 pit bull-type dogs seized during a search of Murphy’s and another property, citing evidence of their use in fighting. These dogs, now under the care of the U.S. Marshals Service, exhibited signs of trauma consistent with dogfighting.
Murphy, if convicted, could face significant penalties, including up to five years in prison per count, supervised release, and hefty fines.
This case highlights a collaborative effort among federal and state agencies to combat animal cruelty and enforce the Animal Welfare Act. The community is urged to report suspected animal fighting to local authorities or the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General.
This announcement was made by high-ranking officials from the Justice Department, the USDA Office of Inspector General, and other local and federal agencies, underscoring the seriousness with which these allegations are taken and the collaborative effort to uphold animal welfare laws.
