Yesterday morning, a SWAT team descended on a property in DeLand, reportedly uncovering a dogfighting operation and rescuing 29 dogs. The raid, occurring around 4:49 a.m. at a residence located at 31938 3rd Avenue, was part of an effort by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office to address the alleged case of animal cruelty. According to a report by Inside Lake, the dogs found on the premises ranged from puppies to the elderly, many bearing scars indicative of dogfighting.
The Lake County Sheriff's Office stated that, in addition to the animals, narcotics were also found during the search. The dogs, now under the care of the Lake County Animal Shelter, exhibited scarring "consistent to dogfighting and were in various stages of healing," a release mentioned by deputies. Charged and taken into custody was Jason Bigger, 48, facing multiple counts of animal cruelty and related offenses. Following his arrest, with a bail set at $150,000, the sheriff's office has opened a line for tips regarding Bigger’s alleged involvement in dogfighting, urging anyone with information to come forward and possibly be eligible for a reward, as detailed in a report by ClickOrlando.
These developments shed light on the ongoing battle against animal cruelty and illegal gambling related to animal fighting. Jason Bigger now faces a swath of serious charges, including 29 counts of animal cruelty, 29 counts of baiting and fighting animals, and charges of marijuana possession and tampering with evidence.
As deputies continue to investigate the scope of Bigger's alleged activities, community members are being asked to share any information that could aid in this pursuit of justice. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office can be reached at (352) 343-2101 or anonymously via Crimeline at (800) 423-8477.
