WV man convicted of role in animal fighting operation

MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Steven Curtis Jennings, 54, of Kearneysville, West Virginia, was convicted today of unlawful possession of animals for the purpose of engaging in animal fighting, United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II, announced.

In June 2015, Jennings was discovered in possession of multiple dogs for the purpose of participating in an animal fighting venture. He pled guilty today to one count of “Possession of Animal for Participation in Animal Fighting Venture.” He faces up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Camilletti prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Jefferson County, West Virginia Sheriff’s Department investigated.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.