Dog Fighting Laws

Dog fighting is an illegal, underground activity in the United States. Dog fighting is typically organized between two owners, who place their dogs in a “pit” or fighting arena to fight until one dog is no longer able to do so. Spectators attend these fights and gamble large amounts of money by betting on one dog to win the fight. Dog fighting is illegal in all 50 states, but the extent of the laws and the severity of the penalties vary from state to state.

Dog fighting is harmful on many levels. It threatens the health and lives of the dogs involved, and also poses a threat to people. Dogs that are raised to be overly aggressive and ruthless may attack people, including children, causing serious injury and even death. In many states dog fighting has been tied to organized crime circles and so is part of a greater criminal problem. To discourage dog fighting, many states have enacted severe penalties for dog fighting.

In Florida, all aspects of dog fighting are considered criminal. Dog fighting, owning a fighting dog, and attending a dog fighting event are all classified as third degree felonies. If convicted, a third degree felony for involvement in dog fighting is punishable by up to five years in jail and $5,000 in fines for each dog owned or fought.

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If you have been arrested for involvement in dog fighting, you are facing serious criminal charges that could result in life-altering penalties. For legal advice and assistance with your dog fighting case, please contact a West Palm Beach criminal attorney Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. today at 561-353-2800.