St. Louis County Man Admits Dogfighting Charge

ST. LOUIS – A man pleaded guilty Friday and admitted hosting dogfights in his home and training dogs to fight.

Terrell Williams, 52, admitted hosting dog fights in a wooden “box” setup in the basement of his Riverview, Missouri, home on two occasions in July and August of 2021. Williams also admitted breeding and owning multiple bull terriers or terrier mixes between Sept. 5, 2020, and May 1, 2022, that were used for fights. On June 22, 2022, FBI agents conducted a court-approved search of Williams’ home and seized eight bull terrier mixes and three Yorkshire terriers, as well as equipment used to train and condition dogs, including weighted vests, body-enhancing chemicals and a canine treadmill. Multiple dogs appeared to be aggressive towards humans and other dogs, anxious or fearful. Dogs also bore scars consistent with dog bites or dog fighting. 
 

Williams pleaded guilty to a dogfighting charge, which is punishable by up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both prison and fine. He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 6.

As part of his plea, Williams agreed to give up the seized dogs and the training equipment.

The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson is prosecuting the case.