The City of Covington experienced a crime common to its neighbor, the City of Atlanta. Animal Control received an anonymous tip and sent officers to check up on the property earlier this week. Several pitbulls were found fighting, and a bait dog was found barely breathing and badly injured.
Animal Control was able to rescue five dogs. The two men present at the scene, Richard Cobb and Darrell Barber, were arrested. Police are currently seeking a third man who is believed to be involved. The Humane Society is offering a $5,000 reward for any information regarding dog fighting.
As an Atlanta Criminal Defense Lawyer, I am familiar with crimes involving animals in Georgia. In today's post, I will outline the offense of dog fighting in Georgia.
Dog Fighting in Georgia
The Georgia Code defines dog fighting as:
Any person who:
(1) Owns, possesses, trains, transports, or sells any dog with the intent that such dog shall be engaged in fighting with another dog;
(2) For amusement or gain, causes any dog to fight with another dog or for amusement or gain, causes any dogs to injure each other;
(3) Wagers money or anything of value on the result of such dogfighting;
(4) Knowingly permits any act in violation of paragraph (1) or (2) of this subsection on any premises under the ownership or control of such person or knowingly aids or abets any such act; or
(5) Knowingly promotes or advertises an exhibition of fighting with another dog.
If convicted of dog fighting in Georgia, then the person will be guilty of a felony offense. The penalty can include up to five years in prison and a fine up to $5,000.
Practice Note
As an Atlanta Criminal Defense Attorney, I handle charges involving animals such as:
This list is not exclusive, but most people are unaware that these offenses even exist until they or a loved one is arrested and charged with one of them. If you or a loved one has been arrested, contact our offices today.
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