“This investigation determined that the defendant defrauded SNAP of over $300,000. When government benefits are defrauded, especially by those in positions of public trust, it negatively affects those who need it most. Our collaborative work to combat this type of fraud and promote the integrity of government programs remains a priority,” said USDA OIG Special Agent in Charge Charmeka Parker.

“This investigation exposed a dangerous criminal operation involving organized dog fighting activities that inflicted horrific abuse on animals while also serving as a breeding ground for other serious criminal activity such as the narcotics and firearms violations that this defendant engaged in,” said USDA Inspector General John Walk. “This case demonstrates USDA OIG’s commitment to aggressively pursuing those who profit from animal cruelty, and we thank our law enforcement partners and the prosecutors who worked with us to ensure this defendant was held accountable.”

“State and federal collaboration is essential to hold fraudsters accountable who steal from federal programs like SNAP. I commend Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald for his work to convene the Southeast Regional Fraud Enforcement Partnership. As Inspector General of USDA, I was proud to join USDA Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden in standing shoulder to shoulder with the DOJ National Fraud Enforcement Division, United States attorneys, state attorneys general, federal and state law enforcement agencies, and other state and federal partners in the Southeast against fraud. I look forward to continuing our work with these dedicated state and federal partners to bring fraudsters to justice.” - USDA Inspector General John Walk

“Criminals who conspire to steal food assistance dollars from needy Americans to enrich themselves are disgraceful and will be held to account. This was a years-long scheme that amounted to more than $19 million in taxpayer funds being stolen. Outrageous,” said Inspector General John Walk of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. “Working with our law enforcement partners, USDA OIG is a proud partner in the fight to end SNAP fraud.”