The Bedford County Sheriff's Office says its officers have arrested a North Carolina man on dog fighting charges, after an undercover investigation.
Investigators tell us they seized five pit-bull dogs in cages from the Best Western Motel in Bedford on Sunday, September 19th. Deputies believe the dogs were brought to Virginia for dog fights in Central Virginia and West Virginia. Among the dogs seized were "Rowdy," who investigators describe as a two-time champion, and his girlfriend "Mercedes."
Rowdy
Bedford Co. Sheriff's Office photo
Mercedes
Bedford Co. Sheriff's Office photo
Officers arrested 25-year-old William Travis Williams, from Marshal, N.C., after deputies say Williams received $6,500 for transporting and selling the five dogs to undercover agents. The agents were disguised as "dog fight coordinators" from Central Virginia, according to the Sheriff's Office.
Williams is charged under a new felony law that makes it illegal to transport, own, train, or sell animals in Virginia for the purpose of fighting with another animal.
If convicted, Williams could face up to five years in prison, and a fine of up to $250,000.
Investigators took the seized dogs to the Bedford County Animal Shelter. Officers also say the investigation is still going on, and additional arrested are anticipated.
The Sheriff's Office says it worked with the Humane Society of the United States on the seizure.
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