August 2021 – Joseph Owens, 49, of Amityville, was charged with Violation of the Prohibition of Animal Fighting, a felony; Overdriving, Torturing and Injuring Animals (Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance), a class A misdemeanor; and three counts of Possessing Animal Fighting Paraphernalia, a class B misdemeanor. Owens was one of ten people arrested in connection with allegedly participating in a large-scale, interstate dogfighting ring, described by officials as potentially the largest dogfighting bust in New York history. Eight of the 10 defendants have have been arraigned, with all but one released on their own recognizance.

According to various news reports, investigators were able to infiltrate a dog fighting enterprise in Suffolk County and put it out of business. Officers arrested 10 individuals who were responsible for animal violence and torture. 89 dogs that were used have been rescued.

The investigation revealed evidence that the defendants were allegedly involved in the breeding, training and illegal fighting of pit bulls. Search warrants issued resulted in the recovery of dog fighting paraphernalia, veterinary surgical supplies, such as a skin stapler; “rape stands,” which are used to immobilize female dogs during breeding; plugging cords, which are used in the electrocution of dogs; steroids and other supplements used to enhance the dogs’ performance; “break sticks,” which are used to break dogs apart by their mouths when they are fighting; and equipment used to strengthen the dogs’ agility, tenacity and bite strength, including treadmills and spring poles. An additional eight dogs were rescued by law enforcement authorities in Connecticut in connection with the investigation.