Dogfighting ring targeted on Merritt Island

Two dogs were rescued and a man and woman arrested after deputies discovered a suspected dogfighting operation at a Merritt Island home.

Brevard County Sheriff's Office deputies charged Altrevius Byron, 41, and Edsheina Thomas, 32, with cruelty to animals charges on Saturday. They uncovered the ring in a home at 435 Easy St. on Merritt Island.

Two dogs wearing thick chains were found inside the home and were bloodied and severely malnourished, authorities reported. A fighting ring structure, smeared with blood, was also found at the property.

"They have an extensive criminal history," said Cpl. David Jacobs, a spokesman for the Brevard County Sheriff's Office. "There was a concerned citizen that called in a report of animal cruelty."

The dogs were taken to the Animal Services center for emergency treatment. Deputies also recovered an undisclosed amount of cash and an undisclosed caliber of firearm.

"We will continue our aggressive efforts to identify and address this abusive and repulsive behavior," Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey said in a statement. "...To maintain pets in such deplorable conditions absolutely infuriates me. I applaud the interaction of the community for taking a stand against crime and helping us protect animals that otherwise cannot protect themselves."

Byron is on probation in an unrelated federal case and has previous arrests for sexual battery, assault on law enforcement officers, narcotics and other charges. He is being held on a no-bond status at the Brevard County Jail Complex in Sharpes.

Thomas was held on a $500 bond and also has an arrest history that includes theft and narcotics charges.

An investigation into the pair's contacts and the suspected dog fighting operation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call 321-633-1216.

Contact Gallop at 321-242-3642, jdgallop@floridatoday.com or on Twitter at @JDGallop