March 2024

James A. Jackson (24) pleaded guilty and was sentenced in Erie County Court, receiving a one-year sentence for his conviction in the animal cruelty case. Jackson admitted he trained three pit bull mixed breed dogs, two males and one female, with the intent for the dogs to engage in animal fighting and intentionally deprived the dogs of food and medical treatment. A final “no animal” order was issued, prohibiting Jackson from owning or caring for any animals for the next 30 years.  Aveon Lockhart, who was also indicted for her alleged role in the dog fighting case was dismissed.

April 2022

Upon an anonymous tip the Cheektowaga Police executed a search warrant and arrested Aveon D Lockhart (21) and James A. Jackson (22) in regards to alleged dog fighting in his home. The SPCA recovered 3 alive dogs in the basement, and the remains of two dead dogs in the backyard.