In October of 2015 a joint investigation between the Chatham-Kent Police Service and the Ontario SPCA Major Case Management Team resulted in the execution of multiple search warrants at an address on Morris Line in Tilbury East Township.
The investigation into a suspected Dog Fighting Operation has thus far resulted in four people being arrested and over 300 charges laid under the Criminal Code of Canada, Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and Dog Owner’s Liability Act.
On March 1, 2016, as a result of this ongoing investigation, members of the Chatham-Kent Police Service arrested Robert Tomlin, 32 years of Kent Bridge for the Criminal Code offences of:
– Cruelty to Animals – causing unnecessary pain, suffering or injury to an animal and,
– Cruelty to Animals – encourages, aids or assists in the fighting or baiting of animals
As a result of the circumstances surrounding the arrest, two search warrants were authorized under the Dog Owner’s Liability Act for two properties in the Kent Bridge area which led to the seizure of seven Pitbull type dogs which are prohibited in the Province of Ontario.
The dogs are being housed in a location outside of Chatham-Kent.
“As with any investigation, each animal is assessed individually,” stated Jennifer Bluhm, senior inspector with the OSPCA.
“The Society will be working with experts in animal behaviour that specialize in dog fighting dogs to ensure the needs identified by the experts are addressed for each of these dogs. We will update the public on their care as we have more information to share.”
Tomlin has been released with conditions pending a future court date of March 22, 2016.
