UNION COUNTY, Fla. – More than 40 dogs were rescued from an alleged dog-fighting operation spanning multiple properties in Union County, following a multi-agency investigation that led to at least one arrest.
Drew Geer, 41, was arrested on charges of felony drug possession and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Additional charges related to animal cruelty and dog fighting were pending as the investigation continued, according to the Union County Sheriff’s Office.
Law enforcement served search warrants at two Lake Butler properties: one on N.W. 71st Run and another on West C.R. 18, where SWAT teams from Union and Bradford counties found dozens of dogs reportedly living in deplorable conditions.
“Their scars tell a heartbreaking story—the sadness and suffering these dogs have endured is unimaginable,” said Kate MacFall, Florida state director for Humane World for Animals.
The rescued dogs, many suffering from scars and showing signs of mistreatment, received care from Humane World for Animals and veterinarians from the University of Florida Veterinary Forensics Science Laboratory.
Union County Sheriff Brad Whitehead emphasized his department’s commitment to combating animal abuse, stating, “We continue to prove that our agency will not tolerate animal abuse and blatant criminal behavior.”
Dog fighting is classified as a felony offense and carries a potential sentence of up to five years in prison. According to law enforcement officials, Geer and other suspects may face additional federal and local charges as the investigation progresses.