Dozens of dogs rescued in Union County after dogfighting ring bust: ‘Scars tell a heartbreaking story’

LAKE BUTLER, Fla. (WCJB) - Union County Sheriff’s deputies arrested one suspect in connection with a dogfighting bust that resulted in dozens of dogs being rescued.

On Wednesday, Union and Clay County sheriff’s deputies served search warrants on two properties located on Northwest 71st Run and West County Road 18, both in Lake Butler.

More than 80 dogs were found mistreated, with scars, being held in filthy conditions, deputies say. Human World for Animals assisted in removing the dogs from the location.

Authorities found evidence suggesting the dogs were part of a dogfighting operation, including dog treadmills and an apparent fighting pit.

“Their scars tell a heartbreaking story—the sadness and suffering these dogs have endured is unimaginable,” said Kate MacFall, Florida state director for Humane World for Animals.

So far, one suspect was arrested in connection with the raid; however, additional charges and arrests are expected. Drew Geer, 41, was charged with drug possession and possession of a firearm by a felon.

“Plastic barrels, two by fours that were nailed together, some kind of little bit of shelter that was not sufficient and the chains of course” said MacFall.

Sheriff Brad Whitehead stated, “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. 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.”

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