Authorities carried out a major joint operation in Union County on December 10, 2025, targeting two properties tied to an ongoing investigation into dogfighting, animal cruelty, and related criminal activity. The Union County Sheriff’s Office, working alongside the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, executed search warrants at locations on NW 71st Run and West County Road 18 in Lake Butler.
Deputies and federal agents arrived early in the morning with support from the Union/Bradford Joint Agency SWAT Team. What they found confirmed months of investigative work: more than 40 dogs in varying states of abuse, many covered in scars and living in filthy, neglected conditions. Investigators also recovered items commonly associated with dogfighting operations, including dog treadmills and what appeared to be a fighting pit.
Humane World for Animals responded to the scene to assist with rescue and care. Kate MacFall, the group’s Florida state director, said the condition of the animals was heartbreaking. She noted that the scars and injuries reflected long-term suffering. “This is a complex, multi-agency collaboration, and we are grateful for the Union County and Clay County Sheriff’s Office for investigating and bringing justice to these animals,” she said.
Sheriff Brad Whitehead thanked all participating agencies and emphasized the commitment to holding offenders accountable. He noted that veterinarians from the University of Florida’s Veterinary Forensics Science Laboratory were on site to help assess the animals and document evidence. “We continue to prove that our agency will not tolerate animal abuse and blatant criminal behavior,” he said.
Dogfighting is a felony in Florida, carrying penalties of up to five years in prison for participating in fights or possessing, transporting, or training dogs for that purpose. Investigators often find that dogfighting operations overlap with other crimes involving weapons, drugs, gambling, and violence.
One suspect, 41-year-old Drew Geer of Lake Butler, was arrested during Wednesday’s operation. He is charged with felony drug possession and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to investigators, additional charges tied to animal cruelty and the dogfighting activity are expected as the federal and local cases move forward.
The investigation remains active, and authorities say more arrests are likely as evidence continues to be processed.
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