WASKOM, Texas — An East Texas man has been charged with dogfighting violations in federal court .
Jesus Allen Stephens, 34, of Waskom, appeared in court today and was charged in connection with participating in a November 2021 major dogfighting event, possessing fighting dogs and fighting dogs in an April 2021 dog fight.
"According to court documents, Stephens organized and hosted a large-scale dogfighting event on family-owned property in Harrison County, Texas, on Nov. 13, 2021." the U.S. Attorney's Office said. "Stephens and others arranged to fight dogs at the event for gambling and entertainment purposes. Prior to the event, Stephens announced a series of up to 14 matches and sent GPS coordinates to the property to multiple individuals. The fight included out-of-state participants. Law enforcement personnel who disrupted the event found a dogfighting pit structure in addition to other dogfighting evidence."
According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, under federal law, it is illegal to fight dogs in a venture that effects interstate commerce and to possess, train, transport, deliver, sell, purchase or receive dogs for fighting purposes.
"The indictment charges Stephens with possessing seven dogs for dogfighting purposes. Stephens is also charged for his participation in another dog fight that occurred on April 10, 2021," officials said. "Authorities recovered six dogs in conjunction with this investigation."
Stephens faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for each count.