SUMTER COUNTY, Fla. — Two people were arrested and eight pit bull terriers were seized Monday in a 3-month dogfighting investigation in Sumter County.
Deputies from Sumter and Pasco counties and the FBI executed a search warrant at a home in the 5000 block of W C-48 in Bushnell,where they said they discovered that Patrick Riley was breeding, prepping and training dogs to fight.
“Apparently he was selling drugs and he was also training dogs,” said James Haworth of the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office. “He’s a nationwide dogfighter and trains dogs to be distributed all over the country.”
The investigation began with an anonymous tip, deputies said.
Crystal meth, nearly 3 pounds of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, numerous pills, antibiotics and Ecstasy were found in the home, authorities said.
[ Photos: Evidence found in alleged dog-fighting operation in Sumter County ]
Deputies also said they found several firearms, including shotguns, rifles and handguns.
They said Riley admitted to hosting at least one dogfight at his home, but deputies said the evidence suggests that he has been involved with dogfighting since 1975.
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“It’s very under the radar. They protect their crime to the utmost and here in Sumter County, Mr. Riley bred them more than he fought them,” said Haworth.
Deputies said they found equipment and documentation detailing involvement, attendance and hosting of dogfighting events.
Sumter County Animal Control took custody of eight pit bull terriers.
Riley is facing a long list charges, including selling, possessing and using animals to fight or bait.
Deputies also arrested Tosha McClenaghan, who was at the home, on charges of drug possession.
Riley is being held in jail on a $60,000 bond.