A federal criminal complaint has been filed charging Frederick Douglass Moorefield, Jr., age 62, of Arnold, Maryland, and Mario Damon Flythe, age 49, of Glen Burnie, Maryland with promoting and furthering an animal fighting venture. The criminal complaint was filed on September 21, 2023, and was unsealed at the defendants’ initial appearances on September 28, 2023. At their initial appearance, U.S. Magistrate Judge J. Mark Coulson ordered that the defendants be released pending trial under the supervision of U.S. Pretrial Services.
According to the affidavit filed in support of the complaint, Moorefield, a Deputy Chief Information Officer for Command, Control, and Communications, for the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and Flythe used an encrypted messaging application to communicate with individuals throughout the United States to discuss dogfighting. Moorefield used the name “Geehad Kennels” and Flythe used the name “Razor Sharp Kennels” to identify their respective dogfighting operations.
For example, as detailed in the affidavit, Moorefield, Flythe, and their associates used the encrypted messaging application to discuss how to train dogs for illegal dogfighting, exchanged videos about dogfighting, and arranged and coordinated dogfights. Moorefield and Flythe also discussed betting on dogfighting, discussed dogs that died as a result of dogfighting, and circulated media reports about dogfighters who had been caught by law enforcement. As further alleged in the affidavit, Moorefield and others also discussed how to conceal their conduct from law enforcement.
On September 6, 2023, law enforcement officers executed search warrants at Moorefield and Flythe’s residences in Maryland. Following the execution of these warrants, twelve dogs were recovered and seized by the federal government. Law enforcement also recovered veterinary steroids, training schedules, a carpet that appeared to be stained with blood, and a weighted dog vest with a patch reading “Geehad Kennels.” In addition, law enforcement officers seized a device consisting of an electrical plug and jumper cables, which the affidavit alleges is consistent with devices used to execute dogs that lose dogfights.
The charges against Moorefield and Flythe carry a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for possessing, training, or transporting animals for participation in an animal fighting venture. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Animal fighting is a cruel and illegal activity that involves training animals to engage in violent fights, often resulting in serious injury or death. It is a form of animal cruelty that is widely condemned and carries severe penalties under federal and state laws. The investigation and prosecution of individuals involved in dogfighting are a priority for law enforcement agencies, as it represents a significant threat to the welfare of animals and public safety.
This case highlights the importance of strong enforcement efforts to combat animal fighting and the use of encrypted messaging applications by criminals to facilitate illegal activities. The use of technology presents unique challenges for law enforcement, as it allows criminals to communicate and coordinate their activities in a clandestine manner. Agencies must adapt and develop strategies to effectively investigate and prosecute those who exploit technology to engage in illegal activities.
Furthermore, this case raises questions about ethics and integrity within government agencies. Frederick Douglass Moorefield, Jr., held a high-ranking position as a Deputy Chief Information Officer for Command, Control, and Communications for the Office of the Secretary of Defense. The alleged involvement in an illegal and cruel activity such as dogfighting raises concerns about the character and judgment of individuals holding positions of authority and responsibility within the government.
The seizure of the twelve dogs and the evidence recovered from the residences of Moorefield and Flythe demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to protect animals and hold individuals accountable for their actions. Animal welfare organizations play a crucial role in assisting law enforcement agencies by providing resources and expertise in responding to cases of animal cruelty and fighting. These organizations work tirelessly to rescue and rehabilitate the animals affected by such criminal activities.
Public awareness and education are essential in the fight against animal cruelty and fighting. It is crucial to continue raising awareness about the consequences and ethical implications of participating or supporting such activities. Society as a whole must condemn and reject any form of animal cruelty, working towards creating a world where animals are protected, valued, and treated with compassion and respect.
In conclusion, the criminal complaint filed against Frederick Douglass Moorefield, Jr., and Mario Damon Flythe sheds light on the disturbing world of animal fighting and the use of technology to facilitate illegal activities. The charges brought against the defendants highlight the seriousness of their alleged involvement in promoting and furthering animal fighting ventures. The seizure of the dogs and the evidence recovered demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement to protecting animals and holding individuals accountable for their actions. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of strong enforcement efforts, public awareness, and education in combating animal cruelty and fighting.
