Ohio Man Guilty in Dogfighting Case
An Ohio man has admitted to running a dogfighting operation while also engaging in drug trafficking — a disturbing reminder of the cruelty and crime tied to animal fighting ventures.
Joel Brown, 38, of Franklin County, pleaded guilty to federal dog fighting and drug charges on August 7, 2025. According to court documents, Brown kept 11 pit bull-type dogs chained to heavy tow chains and tire axles buried in the ground. The dogs were tethered within eyesight of each other but kept just out of reach — a typical setup in organized dogfighting.
On one of Brown’s Facebook accounts, he even posted a video showing a scarred black pit bull running on a slatmill, an apparatus commonly used to condition dogs for fighting.
Following complaints about dogs being left outside, Columbus Humane and the Columbus Division of Police executed search warrants at the property. Authorities rescued the dogs and recovered tools, supplies, and other evidence of dogfighting. They also discovered approximately 52 grams of methamphetamine in Brown’s home.
Brown now faces up to 40 years in prison on the drug charge and five years in prison for the dogfighting charge. He will be sentenced at a later date.
Under federal law, it is illegal to possess, train, transport, deliver, receive, buy, or sell animals for fighting purposes. The case was investigated by Columbus Humane, the Columbus Division of Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Why This Matters
Cases like this highlight the urgent need to strengthen Ohio’s animal cruelty laws and ensure that penalties for such horrific crimes truly reflect the harm caused to both animals and communities. Dogfighting is not only an act of extreme cruelty but is also often linked to other illegal activities, including drug trafficking and weapons violations.
Take Action
Ohioans have the power to help prevent future tragedies like this. Join us in urging lawmakers to support increased penalties for animal cruelty so offenders face real accountability. Stronger laws protect animals, deter abuse, and make our communities safer.
Source: Office of Public Affairs
