A Massachusetts man has been sentenced to over a year in prison for his involvement in dogfighting activities. John D. Murphy, 51, from Hanson, was sentenced in a federal court after being found guilty of possessing dogs for dogfighting purposes.
U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young imposed a sentence of one year and one day of incarceration, followed by community confinement and three years of supervised release. Murphy was also fined $10,000 and banned from owning pit bull-type dogs. In November 2024, Murphy pleaded guilty to nine counts related to an animal fighting venture, violating the federal Animal Welfare Act.
"Dogfighting is a blood sport rooted in cruelty and greed. For years, Mr. Murphy brutalized defenseless animals for profit and sport," remarked United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. "This sentencing marks a historic moment in the first federal dogfighting conviction in Massachusetts."
Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson highlighted the association between dogfighting and other organized criminal activities like illegal gambling. "We commend the collaboration between federal and multiple state and local law enforcement agencies in investigating and prosecuting this case."
Charmeka Parker, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region, reiterated their commitment to partner with law enforcement in targeting those involved in animal fighting.
Murphy was identified discussing dogfighting in recorded calls and on social media. The investigation revealed his long-standing involvement, including participation in private Facebook groups where dogfighting activities were discussed.
A search of Murphy’s residence in Hanson in June 2023 uncovered nine pit bull-type dogs and various animal fighting paraphernalia. The authorities also discovered evidence through his cell phone, including videos and messages related to dogfighting.
A civil forfeiture complaint against 13 pit bull-type dogs was also filed, and the court has ordered these dogs to be forfeited to the United States.
The investigation and prosecution involved multiple law enforcement agencies and was led by U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley alongside other officials.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danial E. Bennett and Kaitlin J. Brown of the Worcester Branch Office, and Trial Attorney Matthew T. Morris of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division, prosecuted the case.
