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Posted on: August 8, 2022

Freeport Man Indicted on Dog Fighting Charges

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Lonnie Poindexter allegedly bred and sold animals for dogfighting

MINEOLA, N.Y. – Nassau County District Attorney Anne T. Donnelly announced that a Freeport man who allegedly bred and sold pit bulls for use in dogfighting has been indicted by a Nassau County grand jury.  

Lonnie Poindexter, 54, was arraigned Thursday before Judge Teresa Corrigan on one count of Prohibition of Animal Fighting/AML 351 (as an E felony) and two counts of Prohibition of Animal Fighting/AML 351 (as a B misdemeanor). The defendant was released on his own recognizance and the charges are not bail qualifying under New York law. The defendant pleaded not guilty and is due back in court on September 15. If convicted of the top charge, the defendant faces a potential maximum of 1-1/3 years to 4 years in prison. 

“Dogfighting is barbaric and cruel, and those who partake in the blood sport are often linked to gang and drug activity,” DA Donnelly said. “The defendant in this case allegedly bred dogs for the purpose of using them in unconscionable blood sport. I encourage anyone who may be aware of dogfighting activity to contact our Animal Crimes Unit at 516-571-7755 option #8.” 

According to the investigation, in 2020 investigators became aware that the defendant was posting videos, photos and dog pedigree information online and offering pit bulls for sale. The defendant allegedly used code words and terms known in the dogfighting community when offering the young dogs for sale. 

After a lengthy investigation, in October 2021, the defendant was arrested at his home in Freeport by members of the Nassau County Police Department. As a result of a search warrant, investigators recovered six pit bulls used for breeding, a rape stand, a treadmill, detailed pedigree paperwork and heavy chains – all consistent with dogfighting. Further investigation allegedly revealed that the defendant was breeding the animals for the purposes of dogfighting.  

The defendant was indicted by a Nassau County grand jury on June 24, 2022.  

This case is being prosecuted by Stephanie Hernan, chief of the Animal Crimes Unit. Poindexter is represented by Michael DerGarabedian, Esq. 

The charges are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless found guilty.  

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