3 arrested after deputies break up dog fighting ring in Baker Co.

NEWTON, Ga. (WALB) - Three people are behind bars after Baker County Sheriff Dana Meade and investigators broke up a dog-fighting ring Thursday night, according to a Facebook post by the sheriff’s office.

[Warning: This post may be disturbing or too graphic for some.]

It happened at a residence in the 400 block of Clear Lake Road around 10:30 p.m.

The sheriff’s office said three arrests were made and warrants are being issued to several more people who ran from the area, including the property owner.

Investigator Lyle Mathis said the following people are over in the Calhoun County Jail:

• John Lee Thomas- Dogfighting, cruelty to animals, possession of marijuana less than one ounce
• Montreal Marquiz Orr- Dogfighting, cruelty to animals, possession of marijuana less than one ounce
• Ricky Recardo Malone- Dogfighting, cruelty to animals, obstruction of an officer

Seven vehicles were impounded and 11 dogs were seized, with two of them suffering from severe injuries.

Michael David Hammonds, 45, is wanted on several active warrants in connection to the incident.

This is an ongoing investigation that will result in more arrests and seized property, according to the post.

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