Maryland Father, Son Indicted in Dogfighting Case

A federal grand jury has indicted Theodore Lamont Stinson, 48, and his son Theodore Lamont Stinson Jr., 25, of Whiteford, Maryland, on 12 counts tied to an alleged dogfighting operation. Prosecutors say that since at least 2016 the men and others bought, bred, trained, sold and transported pit bull-type dogs for fighting and used a kennel called KLK to advertise dogs. A July 2025 search of the elder Stinson's property uncovered 44 dogs along with veterinary supplies, breeding equipment, sales and pedigree records, and a spring pole and rope authorities say can be used to condition fighting dogs. The indictment alleges the father advised his son on the dogs' care and often arranged transportation, while the son transported dogs to their destinations. Local authorities described the dogs' living conditions as poor, citing soiled bedding, inadequate space and ventilation, and a lack of water. The charges include conspiracy and other offenses related to animal fighting and using interstate channels to promote or support it. Contested: none found. The allegations have not been proven in court.