More arrests expected in Plant City dog fighting ring

PLANT CITY, Fla. - A Plant City man faces 22 charges of dog fighting and two counts of drug violations, according to Hillsborough County Animal Services.

James Craig Jenkins Jr., 32, of 1301 Peregrine Dr., was involved in a dog fighting ring, said Cpl. Ken Vetzel, an investigator with Hillsborough County Animal Services.

Vetzel said they had been investigating Jenkins for two years. They believe he is one of three main players in a dog fighting ring that stretches from New Jersey to South Florida.

Eight pit bulls were seized from Jenkins’ house. At least half had been involved in dog fighting, Vetzel said.

Investigators found dog fighting magazines and other dog fighting evidence at the house. Vetzel said they also found drugs, money and guns.

In the backyard, a wooden structure that looked like a shed was visible. Vetzel said that was where the dogs fought and “a lot of blood” was seen.

“It’s sad. It’s very sad,” Vetzel said. “It’s deplorable. It’s barbaric.”

Law enforcement will continue the investigation and other arrests are expected.