Earlier this year I posted an article about John D. Murphy, 51, of Hanson, who had been indicted for allegedly promoting and organizing dogfights.
Today in Boston’s federal court Murphy pleaded guilty to nine counts of possessing animals for use in an animal fighting venture, in violation of the federal Animal Welfare Act. His sentencing is scheduled for February 27, 2025.
Murphy’s plea was announced on the U.S. District Attorney’s blog. The announcement contained a statement from U.S. Attorney Joshua Levy:
Mr. Murphy’s actions represent the calculated cruelty and inhumanity that dogfighting embodies – a barbaric practice that exploits and harms animals for entertainment and profit. Today’s conviction brings an end to Mr. Murphy’s reign of brutality and sends a clear message: dogfighting is a federal crime, and those who engage in this inhumane conduct will face justice. This case marks the first time federal criminal charges have been brought in the District of Massachusetts under the Animal Welfare Act, underscoring the seriousness of these crimes and our commitment to holding those who engage in this abhorrent conduct accountable. We urge anyone with knowledge of animal fighting or abuse to come forward and report it.
Each of the nine counts provide for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000.