Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Decades-Long Dogfighting Operation

In a landmark case of prolonged cruelty towards animals, a Puerto Rican man, Antonio Casillas Montero, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for his involvement in breeding dogs for illegal fighting. The U.S. Attorney’s Office announced this significant development, marking the end of a lengthy legal battle that unfolded over decades.

Stone City Kennels and a Life of Cruelty

For more than 35 years, Antonio Casillas Montero operated Stone City Kennels in Puerto Rico, a notorious hub for the breeding and selling of dogs destined for brutal fights. He was found guilty of conspiring to violate the Animal Welfare Act, a grave offense under federal law. In May, Casillas pled guilty to these charges, ultimately leading to his sentencing in late September.

A Dark Legacy of Dogfighting

Casillas's malevolent enterprise spanned continents, with his dogs participating in over 150 fights held in various countries, including the United States, Mexico, Ecuador, and Peru. During the sentencing proceedings, prosecutors highlighted the unprecedented extent of Casillas's involvement in dogfighting, emphasizing that no comparable case had ever been identified.

Chronic Neglect and Unspeakable Cruelty

Authorities accused Casillas of a disturbing pattern of cruelty. He allowed dogs to perish from their injuries rather than removing them from fights, which could extend for more than an hour. Court documents revealed shocking details about the condition of dogs seized from his property. Many were afflicted with pustules, fungal infections, limping, and jaw clamping, demonstrating the severe neglect they endured.

A Disturbing Environment

The disturbing practice of dogfighting, often considered an open secret in Puerto Rico, had long evaded the attention of local law enforcement. Casillas's sentencing shed light on the grim reality that persisted unchecked for years.

The Role of Complicit Veterinarians

In a deeply troubling revelation, prosecutors unveiled that certain veterinarians in Puerto Rico played a complicit role in enabling Casillas's dogfighting operation. These veterinarians provided health certificates, essential for transporting dogs to the Dominican Republic via ferry. Casillas also resorted to injecting dogs with steroids to enhance their fighting prowess.

The Global Reach of Cruelty

Casillas was not limited to inflicting suffering within Puerto Rico. He bred and sold fighting dogs for thousands of dollars and distributed them to individuals worldwide, perpetuating a global network of cruelty.

Antonio Casillas Montero's seven-year prison sentence represents a significant step in the fight against dogfighting and cruelty towards animals. It is a reminder of the importance of enforcing stringent laws to protect the welfare of animals and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.