The Case for a Felony
Suspected dog fighter in Atlanta accused of other more serious crimes often linked to the cruel world of dog fighting.
By Jon Dunn, Best Friends StaffAs lawmakers in Georgia continue to grapple with the decisions over a tougher law for dog fighting, one of the major sticking points is still the first time felony spectator option. While many lawmakers agree with giving prosecutors the option to throw the book at hardened criminals who choose to fight dogs, many don’t agree with the possibility of a first time felony for a spectator at a dog fight.
Take the case of Ossia Phillips in Atlanta. In March of last year, Ossia and two friends kidnapped a man at gunpoint. They tied up the man’s wrists and ankles, and held him hostage. It was revealed in court that Ossia held a gun at the man’s head for hours. All because prosecutors say the men wanted $50.
Phillips was let out on bond on the charges related to the kidnapping. Then, just this last December he was in trouble again. Ossia said his life had taken a new turn, and he was keeping himself clean. But what investigators found at his home in Southwest Atlanta paints a very different story.
A sawed off shotgun was found, along with drugs and a dog fighting ring with bleachers. Dead dogs were found around the property. 15 alive, but badly scarred pit bulls were also found.
This is sadly an all too familiar scene. Investigators say dog fighting does go hand in hand with some of the worst crimes in our communities. The “arenas” are breeding grounds, not only for fighting dogs, but also drugs and crime. Often gang related, these fighters don’t dog fight just for fun, they do it for money. Large amounts of money can change hands in underground gambling.
Ossia Phillips is a career criminal, with an extensive rap sheet for drug and gun violations. The record has shown that this is not an unusual background for someone involved in dog fighting.
The fight for the proposed new anti dog fighting law is still taking place inside the halls of the Georgia State Capitol. The bill currently is in a holding pattern as other bills are being discussed and voted on. Please see below on how you can get involved to make sure those involved in dog fighting are punished to the fullest extent.
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