A Massachusetts man was sentenced to more than a year in prison for federal dogfighting charges, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
John Murphy, 51, of Hanson, pleaded guilty in November to nine counts of possessing animals for use in an animal fighting venture in violation of the federal Animal Welfare Act. He had been indicted in March 2024 — the first time federal charges were brought in Massachusetts under the law.
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Murphy’s indictment and arrest came after federal agents and the Animal Rescue League of Boston searched a home on East Washington Street in Hanson in June of 2023. Throughout the day, investigators were seen taking out boxes, paper bags and empty animal crates. At the time, a law enforcement source told NBC10 Boston that the investigation involved multiple locations in Massachusetts and two other states.
Karen LoStracco, the director of law enforcement for the Animal Rescue League of Boston, said this time of crime is not unusual.
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“It’s something that’s used for the enjoyment of individuals. It’s also tied to other forms of organized crimes, like illegal gambling, drugs, gang activity things of that nature,
