TPSO Uncovers Alleged Dog Fighting Operation

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office reports that as agents were executing a narcotics related search warrant, they came upon what appeared to be a dog fighting ring and operation on Marie Dr. in Hammond. Three people now face felony charges that include distribution and the intent to distribute illegal narcotics, possession charges, as well as alleged violations of the dogfighting prohibitions contained in the federal Animal Welfare Act of 1966, a federal law regulating the handling of animals and animal cruelty.

Agents seized a large quantity of illegal narcotics, drug paraphernalia, a single stack handgun with a silencer suppressor and cash; additionally, with the assistance of the Tangipahoa Parish Animal Control, Agents rescued twelve (12) dogs chained or otherwise attached to trees throughout the backyard of the residence.  

The search was conducted on January 28, 2021, around 6:30 in the morning. After agents made contact with the owner, secured the residence and its occupants, they began their search. As agents made their way throughout the house and into the back yard, they began to observe tools commonly used to train dogs to fight and scattered medical supplies. Further into the back yard and near a canal embankment was a secured 10 x 10 wooden box with three foot sides, that appeared to be the common area for the dogs to fight. With the discovery of these findings, agents contacted Tangipahoa Parish Animal Control for assistance.

Calvin Brown (aka Brisco), age 44 and owner of the residence, is a registered and was charged with Possession with the intent to distribute/manufacture CDS II, Possession with the intent to distribute CDS I (Marijuana), Drug Paraphernalia, Animal Cruelty, Convicted felon in possession of a firearm, Possession of weapons while in possession of a CDS, Dog Fighting, training and possession of dogs for the use of fighting, Possession of CDS IV narcotics, Possession of CDS II (Meth), and Duties of a registered sex offender to report a change of address.

Zanobya Abron Brown (age 32) and Tyler Pines (age 20) also lived at the residence and were arrested and charged with Possession with the intent to distribute/manufacture CDS II, Possession with the intent to distribute CDS I (Marijuana), Drug Paraphernalia, Animal Cruelty, Possession of weapons while in possession of a CDS, Dog Fighting, training and possession of dogs for the use of fighting, Possession of CDS IV narcotics, Possession of CDS II (Meth). 

Illegal gambling and drug sales often take place at dogfighting events. Cases of animal cruelty will always be taken seriously in Tangipahoa Parish,” Chief James Travis said. “When we are made aware of any animal cruelty issues, we do the best we can to investigate and hold those responsible accountable for the suffering they’ve caused these animals." Dogfighting is a felony in all 50 states.