A Monroeville man has been sentenced two years in prison after pleading guilty to charges for operating a large dogfighting ring, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Alabama.
Prior to sentencing, Gecoby Penn pleaded guilty to 17 counts of possessing dogs for the purpose of participation in animal fighting ventures back in May 2024.
According to a press release, the Monroeville County Sheriff’s Office was notified on July 29, 2023 that Penn hosted a dogfighting event two days prior.
On Aug. 3, 2023 law enforcement executed a search warrant on Penn’s property the release stated.
After searching Penn’s home, officers captured 38 dogs and discovered canine remains. The dogs were found outside with no access to food or water in 100 degree weather, according to the release.
Of the 38 dogs, 21 were determined to have injuries sustained from participating in dogfighting and 22 were subsequently euthanized after treatment by a veterinarian.
Officials also found a list of objects related to Penn’s dogfighting activities. According to the release, police found, “modified treadmills (manual and electric) for dog fight conditioning, injectable veterinary canine medications and syringes, a weighted dog vest, chains and weighted collars, a 4-wheeler mounted running collar, a Flying Jinny, rotary runner, a training pool, a dogfight corral with bloodstains, and a wooden arena.”
Penn was also sentenced to serve 3 years of supervised release after leaving prison whereupon he is not allowed to own or possess a dog.
Penn will have to pay $62,408 in restitution to the Monroe County Animal Shelter.
Penn’s debt will also included paying $2,348 to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, and $1,700 in special assessments.
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