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Michael Valentine: Sentenced for Dogfighting, Fentanyl Crimes
Ohio man Michael Valentine, 40, received a 21-month prison sentence and three years supervised release for charges related to dogfighting and fentanyl distribution. He previously pleaded guilty to two counts of dogfighting and five counts of fentanyl distribution. Valentine, who is already serving a 10-year sentence for drug charges, will serve nine months concurrently and 12 months consecutively with his existing term. In total, he will spend 11 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim emphasized the severity of dogfighting as a crime that harms animals and communities. U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker noted the danger posed by Valentine’s crimes to both humans and animals, highlighting the removal of fentanyl from circulation and the rescue of over 50 dogs.
The investigation, initiated after a dog attack in 2019, led to the seizure of 40 dogs and various dogfighting equipment. A subsequent search in 2022 uncovered additional evidence of dogfighting, along with significant quantities of fentanyl and cocaine packaged for distribution, and two assault-style rifles.