UNION COUNTY, Fla. – A man was arrested Tuesday on drug possession and distribution charges, and is also facing possible illegal game and animal fighting charges.
The Union County Sheriff's Office said its investigators, deputies, SWAT team and Drug Task Force, along with the Bradford County Sheriff's Office SWAT team, served a search warrant at a property off of County Road 791 in the Providence area after a lengthy investigation into drugs and animal fighting.
UCSO said Eric S. Cox, 50, was arrested, and more than 80 fighting chickens and six pit bulls were seized from his property.
Officials said the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals assisted in collection evidence and removing the dogs and chickens. Those animals were moved by the ASPCA to a temporary shelter, where they will be cared for.
UCSO said the ASPCA's Anti-Cruelty Behavior team is conducting behavioral assessments on the animals, and its Legal Advocacy department will work to ensure the best legal outcome for the animals.
Cox is charged with five felony counts of illegal drug and alcohol possession and intent to distribute illegal drugs. UCSO said at the conclusion of the investigation, he could potentially be charged with more than 80 felony counts of illegal game and animal fighting.
Cox is being held in the Union County Jail.