UNION COUNTY, Fla. — The Union County Sheriff’s Office and Joint Agency S.W.A.T. Team executed search warrants at two locations in Union County on Wednesday, uncovering evidence of dogfighting and rescuing over 40 mistreated dogs, UCSO announced in a social media post.
The investigation, led by UCSO in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Office of Inspector General and Clay County Sheriff’s Office, targeted properties in Union and Clay counties suspected of criminal activities, including dogfighting and animal cruelty.
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Drew Geer, 41, of Lake Butler, was arrested for felony drug possession and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Further charges for Geer and others related to animal cruelty and dogfighting are expected as the investigation continues, UCSO said.
The UNION/BRADFORD SWAT Team served search warrants on properties located on N.W. 71st Run and West C.R. 18 in Lake Butler. Evidence consistent with dogfighting, such as dog treadmills and a fighting pit, was collected at both locations, UCSO said.
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Humane World for Animals assisted in the rescue operation, finding the dogs in various states of mistreatment, covered in scars and living in filthy conditions.
“Their scars tell a heartbreaking story—the sadness and suffering these dogs have endured is unimaginable,” Kate MacFall, Florida state director for Humane World for Animals, said in the UCSO social media post. “This is a complex, multi-agency collaboration and we are grateful for the Union County and Clay County Sheriff’s Office for investigating and bringing justice to these animals.”
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Dogfighting is a felony punishable by up to five years in prison, with those involved often linked to other crimes such as weapons, violence, gambling, and illegal drugs, UCSO said.
“We would like to thank all the agencies that have been involved in this intensive multi-agency investigation and those that assisted us today to help save these animals,” Union County Sheriff Brad Whitehead said in the post. ”Thanks to Humane World for Animals and Veterinarians from the University of Florida Veterinary Forensics Science Laboratory for assisting our agency. We continue to prove that our agency will not tolerate animal abuse and blatant criminal behavior.”
Authorities urge anyone with information that could help the investigation to contact UCSO at 386-496-2501.
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