In a verdict that underscores the serious nature of animal cruelty, Randall Larry Thaxton, a 59-year-old man from Canton, has been convicted on multiple counts of both dogfighting and animal cruelty. The decision was reached after about three hours of jury deliberation in Cherokee County.
The case, which has drawn the attention of local animal rights advocates, revealed that Thaxton kept dogs in abhorrent conditions, tethered with "heavy logging chains." According to Atlanta News First, these animals were found with visible signs of neglect, including skin infections, rashes around their necks, and swollen paw pads. One of the dogs, housed at the Cherokee County Animal Shelter following the seizure, gave birth to a litter of puppies shortly after.
Thaxton faced court on nine counts of dogfighting and seven counts of cruelty to animals. The evidence presented at trial was substantial, including over 300 exhibits and testimonies from 11 witnesses.
The investigation gained momentum in November 2022 when the Cherokee County Marshal's Office received a tip that implicated Thaxton as a player in a dogfighting ring with connections in Dallas, Georgia. Upon executing a search warrant in December, authorities discovered a myriad of incriminating items. These were not limited to but included dogfighting paraphernalia such as steroids, workout regimens for dogs, and contracts for the sale of dogs to known dogfighters. "Inside his home, they found items associated with dog fighting," as reported by WSBTV, illustrating the premeditated and calculated nature of Thaxton's involvement in the illegal enterprise.
Sentencing for Thaxton will be determined at a date yet to be announced, as stated by Cherokee County Superior Court Judge Tony Baker. Meanwhile, the dogs rescued from Thaxton's property continue to receive care as they recover from their ordeal.
