Multiple arrests have been made in connection with an alleged dog-fighting operation in north Mississippi.
The Panola County Sheriff’s Office said that five people are currently facing charges after deputies encountered a “dog-fighting event” being prepared for on Sunday. The incident, according to authorities, was unfolding at a property on Rock Hill Road, west of Sardis. 23 dogs were rescued at the scene and are being treated at clinics in the surrounding area.
Law enforcement took the following individuals into custody:
- Portia Henderson, 35 — charged with dog fighting, conspiracy, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute
- Derrick Fondren, 32 — charged with dog fighting, conspiracy, and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute
- Marlo Cox, 30 — charged with conspiracy
- Andrew Franklin, 31 — charged with conspiracy
- Ivan Sandridge, 37 — charged with conspiracy
All five suspects are Mississippians. Police reported that multiple vehicles were impounded from the property. The investigation into this case is ongoing, and officials are expecting to make “several more arrests.”