NEWARK (1010 WINS/WCBS 880) – Two New Jersey men were indicted on federal charges Monday for allegedly taking part in a "dog fighting collective" that spanned several states and included the live-streaming of dog fights and the killing of underperforming dogs.
The disturbing charges, detailed in a federal indictment from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Jersey, allege the pair were involved in a Telegram-based dog-fighting ring called "the DMV Board."
Tommy J. Watson, aka "Snakes," 43, of Clayton, and Johnnie Lee Nelson, aka "Johnny," 34, of Bridgeton, conspired with others to violate the Animal Welfare Act with their venture, called "From Da Bottom Kennels," which authorities said ran from August 2017 through March 2019.
Watson surrendered Monday, while Nelson was arrested on Dec. 5.
They posted bloodline info of fighting dogs and broadcasted live videos of dog fights, dog training and the killing of underperforming dogs, including by hanging, according to the indictment.
Prosecutors allege Watson forced two pit bull–type dogs to take part in fights on Dec. 2, 2018, and that he transported a third dog named Rambo to a location on Center Road in Upper Deerfield Township, where there was a dog fight scheduled for March 23, 2019. He also brought do-it-yourself veterinary equipment like a skin stapler to the dogfight, prosecutors alleged.
Law enforcement busted the March 23 fight, which both men are accused of training Rambo to fight in. Two other dogs that had already fought were allegedly discovered concealed in a car during the bust, according to court docs.
Watson was also charged with one count of possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
The conspiracy charges carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison, as do the counts of violating the Animal Welfare Act.