CONTENT WARNING: This article contains accusations of graphic animal abuse.
TULSA, Okla. — A Tulsa man was charged with 23 counts of Illegal Dog Fighting with law enforcement saying 17 dogs were seized from his custody.
According to the United States Department of Justice, 43-year-old Julius Deane Griffin was given multiple charges related to the alleged running of an illegal dog fighting operation.
“The allegations against Griffin are disturbing,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Prior to Griffin’s arrest, prosecutors partnered with animal rescue agencies that specialize in treating and caring for dogs seized from illegal dog operations. I want to thank law enforcement and all the agencies that collaborated to ensure these dogs receive the medical treatment and care they deserve to have.”
Creek County Sheriff’s Office began investigating Griffin in 2024 according to court documents.
A search warrant was eventually issued for Griffin’s home on April 21, 2025 and was carried out by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) and the United States Department of Agriculture — Office of Inspector General.
Authorities said they seized 17 dogs, saying many of the dogs were found with damaged or missing body parts, open wounds and visible scars. Law enforcement stated they believe these injuries are consistent with dog fighting.
All 17 dogs were placed with outside caregivers.
Authorities also said they found a single deceased pit bull-type dog with scars and open wounds that had only recently passed away.
Investigators said Griffin advertised his illegal dog fights on social media, allegedly once posting a dog fighting video where a child is seen visibly cheering.
In Griffin’s seized communications, he allegedly spoke about dogs being “murdered” and made other graphic statements related to injuries received by dogs during the fights.
Authorities said Griffin participated in conversations with an alleged “dog fighting commentator” where some of the dog fights Griffin was accused of being involved in were described in graphic detail.
During the search warrant, law enforcement stated they seized various items they believe to be related to Griffin’s dog fighting operation including dog fighting trophies, dog treadmills, kennels, digital scales, dog food, injectable steroids, syringes and dog medication.
Authorities said they also seized ammunition, gun magazines, Narcan, more than 700 grams of mushrooms, a planning or drug ledger, over $16,000 in cash, more than 20 cellphones and electronic devices and clothing displaying the name of the illegal kennel.
“HSI will go to no end to pursue criminals who inflict harm and exploit innocent animals for their deviant entertainment and financial gain,” said Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard, Homeland Security Investigations Dallas. “Our investigation into illegal dog-fighting rings are vital to public safety as these types of criminal activities are often precursors into other organized criminal activity such as drug trafficking and money laundering.”
Besides the 23 counts of Illegal Dog Fighting, Griffin was also charged with Causing an Individual Under the Age of 16 to Attend an Animal Fighting Venture, Felon in Possession of Ammunition, Possession of Ammunition After a Misdemeanor Conviction of Domestic Violence, and Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country.
According to court documents, Griffin was convicted in 2005 for involvement in a separate dog fighting ring containing more than 40 dogs. In 2009, he was convicted of domestic assault and battery.
FOX23 will provide more updates on this case as they become available.
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