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DHSS Press Release

Molly Magarik, Secretary
Jen Brestel, Director of Communications  
302-605-0577
Email: Jennifer.brestel@delaware.gov

DPH Media Contact:
Tim Turane
Email: DPHMedia@Delaware.gov

Date: January 11, 2023
DHSS-1-2023

DELAWARE OFFICE OF ANIMAL WELFARE, DELAWARE STATE POLICE RESCUE 14 DOGS; FIVE DELAWARE AND MARYLAND RESIDENTS FACE FELONY CHARGES RELATED TO DOG FIGHTING

DOVER, DE (Jan. 11, 2023) - The Delaware Division of Public Health's (DPH) Office of Animal Welfare (OAW) and the Delaware State Police (DSP) responded to a complaint of suspicious activity at a Seaford residence over the weekend resulting in charges related to dog fighting and the rescue of 14 dogs. One dog died from the injuries sustained from the alleged dog fighting activities. There are five (5) dogs that remain in serious condition, and another eight (8) dogs that are being cared for by Brandywine Valley SPCA.

On Sunday, Jan. 8, 2023, at approximately 2:00 p.m., DSP responded to a report of suspicious activity around the 26000 block of Lonesome Road in Seaford. DSP conducted an investigation and discovered multiple people at the property actively engaged in dog fighting. DSP took five individuals into custody at the scene. Following the observation of animal fighting, OAW obtained a search and seizure warrant for the property units and took custody of the 14 dogs that were found at the residence.

The defendants are:

Samuel Foreman, age 44, of Whaleyville, MD
Timothy Whaley, age 44, of Salisbury, MD
Bryon Briddell, age 35, of Berlin, MD
Kevin Land, age 47 of Salisbury, MD or Seaford, DE
Glenn White, age 36 of Salisbury, MD or Wilmington, DE

OAW charged all defendants with one count each of:

Title 11 - 1326 (000A) FELONY
- Own, possess, keep, or use of animal for fighting
Title 11 - 1326 (000B) FELONY
- Present at a building/shed /room/yard for animal fight
Title 11-1325 (00B4) FELONY
- Cruelly or unnecessary kills or injures any animal

Each of the defendants face the possibility of up to 3 years in prison for animal cruelty which is a Class F felony, and up to a 5-year sentence for animal fighting which is a Class E felony. The defendants posted bail on an $18,000 secured bond from Sussex Correctional Institution (SCI). Part of the bail conditions stipulate that the defendants they have no contact, possession, or ownership of any animals. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information regarding this case should contact OAW at 302-255-4646.

Animal Cruelty Complaints

Cruelty and neglect of animals is against the law (delcode.delaware.gov/title16/c030f/index.html). If you are concerned about an animal's welfare and suspect cruelty or neglect, contact OAW's Delaware Animal Services section immediately at 302-255-4646 or report online at animalservices.delaware.gov/report_violation/25.

The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH), a division of the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, is a nationally accredited public health agency recognized by the Public Health Accreditation Board for its outstanding dedication to driving change through innovation. DPH is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

DELAWARE OFFICE OF ANIMAL WELFARE, DELAWARE STATE POLICE RESCUE 14 DOGS; FIVE DELAWARE AND MARYLAND RESIDENTS FACE FELONY CHARGES RELATED TO DOG FIGHTING

Delaware's Government