Lexington, SC – A Leesville man has been sentenced to federal prison after investigators uncovered a large-scale dogfighting operation in Lexington County, officials announced Wednesday.
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of South Carolina, 53-year-old Samuel Alexander Gray was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison followed by three years of court-ordered supervision. Gray pleaded guilty to operating a dogfighting venture and to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Investigators said the case began in September 2023, when the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department and Animal Services responded to a tip about mistreated animals on a rural property. Authorities discovered a blood-stained fighting pit, spectator seating, and training equipment, including weighted collars.
Officials said several dogs showed injuries consistent with dogfighting. Fourteen dogs were seized from the property, along with six firearms and 400 rounds of ammunition.
“Gray’s cruel and illegal dogfighting operation trapped these helpless dogs in a living nightmare,” said U.S. Attorney Bryan Stirling. “We will continue to prosecute those who torture and harm vulnerable animals for entertainment and profit.”
As part of his sentence, Gray is prohibited from owning dogs or possessing firearms due to prior felony convictions. The case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, and Animal Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elle Klein prosecuted the case.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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