A 24-year-old Cheektowaga man, James A. Jackson, has been sentenced by an Erie County Court judge following his conviction on animal cruelty charges and involvement in a dog fighting investigation. The sentencing comes as a result of a joint effort by the Erie County SPCA investigators and the Cheektowaga Police, who received an anonymous tip regarding dog fighting activities in April of 2022.
Jackson has been handed a one-year sentence for his convictions in the animal cruelty case. This sentence will be served concurrently with his determinate sentence of 2 years in prison, followed by 3 years of post-release supervision for an unrelated gun charge case. The severity of the punishment reflects the seriousness of the crimes committed.
The investigation led the Erie County SPCA to execute a search warrant at Jackson's residence on Andrews Avenue in the Town of Cheektowaga. During the search, investigators discovered evidence consistent with dog fighting both inside and outside the property. The SPCA rescued three live dogs from the basement, while the remains of two deceased dogs were found in the backyard.
In a press release issued by the Erie County District Attorney's Office, it was revealed that Jackson admitted to training three pit bull mixed breed dogs, two males, and one female, with the intention of engaging them in animal fighting. He also intentionally deprived the dogs of food and medical treatment. On March 19, 2024, Jackson pleaded guilty to all eight counts in the indictment.
The charges against Jackson included three counts of Prohibition of Animal Fighting, classified as Class "E" felonies under New York Agriculture and Markets Law. Additionally, he faced four counts of Overdriving, Torturing, and Injuring Animals, Failure to Provide Proper Sustenance, classified as Class "A" misdemeanors, and one count of Prohibition of Animal Fighting, Possession, Sale, or Making of Animal Fighting Paraphernalia, classified as a Class "B" misdemeanor.
As part of the sentencing, a final 'no animal' order has been issued, prohibiting Jackson from owning or caring for any animals for the next 30 years. This measure aims to ensure the safety and well-being of animals in the community.
Acting Erie County District Attorney Mike Keane commented on the case, stating, "This is a horrible case involving a defendant who tortured innocent dogs and used cruel methods to train them to become dangerous animals. This case highlights the tragedy of these underground, illegal activities." Keane emphasized the importance of addressing and eradicating such practices while acknowledging the SPCA's role in safeguarding animals and seeking justice.