Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story misstated Jason Biggers’ bond and did not list two charges because he had not completed the booking process. The story has been updated with the correct information.
DeLAND, Fla.—A suspected dog fighter has been arrested and is facing 29 counts of animal cruelty and 29 counts baiting and fighting animals following the execution of search warrant by the Lake County Sheriff’s office Agriculture and Marine Unit early Wednesday morning.
Deputies arrived at the home at 31938 3rd Avenue in the DeLand area of Lake County shortly after 4:45 a.m. and found 29 dogs chained up and in kennels, LCSO Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake. The dogs ranged in age from puppies to elderly dogs, and the majority of them had scarring consistent with dog fighting and were in various stages of healing, she said. The dogs are being held at the Lake County Animal Shelter.
Jason Biggers, 48, was arrested and transported to Lake County Jail, where he is being held on $150,000. He is also facing a tampering with evidence charge and possession of marijuana more than 20 grams. Deputies are asking anyone with information on Biggers’ activities to call them at 352-343-2101 or Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS. Crimeline callers may be eligible for a reward.
