Ohio Man Pleads Guilty to Dogfighting
On August 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice announced that Joel Brown, 38, of Franklin County, Ohio, pleaded guilty to federal dogfighting and drug crimes.
Brown admitted to keeping and training 11 pit bull–type dogs for fighting. The dogs were chained outdoors with heavy tow chains, within sight of one another but just out of reach—a setup typical of organized dogfighting operations. Authorities also found training tools and equipment, including a slatmill, and a video posted to social media showing a scarred dog being conditioned for fighting.
When investigators searched the property, they also discovered 52 grams of methamphetamine. Brown now faces a mandatory minimum of five years in prison for the drug charge and up to five years for the animal fighting charge. Sentencing will take place at a later date.
Why This Matters
Dogfighting is not only cruel but also often tied to other serious crimes, including drug trafficking and illegal gambling. While federal law prohibits possessing, training, or selling animals for fighting, penalties at the state level must be strong enough to deter offenders. This case is another reminder that Ohio must continue to strengthen its animal cruelty laws to protect vulnerable animals and hold abusers accountable.
Take Action
You can help ensure that Ohio’s laws go further to protect animals and prevent cases like this from happening again. Here’s how:
Contact your legislators. Tell them you support stronger penalties for animal cruelty, including dogfighting. Lawmakers need to hear that their constituents care about this issue.
Share this story. Spread awareness on social media or in your community so more Ohioans understand the link between animal cruelty and other serious crimes.
Support organizations on the front lines. Groups like Columbus Humane and shelters across Ohio are rescuing and caring for animals pulled from cruelty cases. Donations of supplies or funds make a big difference.
Stay informed and vote. Support candidates who prioritize animal welfare and public safety.
Ready to make your voice heard? Visit our OAA Action Alerts page to send a message to your legislators today.
