Ohio Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Prison for Running Dogfighting Ring and Drug Distribution

An Ohio man, Michael Valentine of Bidwell, has been sentenced to 11 years in prison after authorities discovered he was operating a dogfighting ring from his residence where he housed over 50 dogs. The investigation began in 2019 following a dog attack involving a child residing with Valentine, which led to the seizure of 40 dogs and various dogfighting paraphernalia.

A subsequent search in March 2022, related to a fentanyl distribution investigation, uncovered more dogfighting equipment, two assault-style rifles, and illegal drugs, including 677 grams of fentanyl and 69 grams of cocaine packaged for distribution. Additionally, Valentine had previously sold 141 grams of fentanyl from the property.

Valentine pleaded guilty to charges related to dogfighting and drug distribution, resulting in a 10-year prison sentence for drug distribution and five years of supervised release. This case illustrates the severity of penalties for those involved in dogfighting, a practice that poses risks to both animals and communities. The investigation was part of an initiative to dismantle criminal organizations engaged in various illegal activities, including dogfighting and drug trafficking.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General, along with other law enforcement agencies, played a significant role in the investigation to protect animals and combat criminal enterprises.