A Missouri man pleaded guilty Friday to hosting dogfights in his home and training dogs for combat, federal prosecutors said.
Terrell Williams, 52, admitted to organizing dog fights in the basement of his Riverview, Missouri, home on two occasions in July and August of 2021. Prosecutors said Williams set up a wooden “box” in the basement where the fights took place. Additionally, Williams acknowledged breeding and owning multiple bull terriers and terrier mixes used in the fights between Sept. 5, 2020, and May 1, 2022.
On June 22, 2022, FBI agents conducted a court-authorized search of Williams’ home. Authorities seized eight bull terrier mixes and three Yorkshire terriers. They also confiscated training and conditioning equipment, including weighted vests, body-enhancing chemicals, and a canine treadmill. According to investigators, multiple dogs exhibited aggressive behavior toward humans and other dogs, showed signs of anxiety or fear, and had scars consistent with dog bites or dog fighting.
Williams pleaded guilty to a dogfighting charge, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. His sentencing is scheduled for June 6.
As part of the plea agreement, Williams agreed to forfeit the seized dogs and training equipment.
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