Posted by Lisa Strawbridge - email
DETROIT (AP) - A federal judge has closed a dog fighting investigation by sentencing the last of three men to 13 months in prison.
Joshua Gates of Lenawee County could be free this summer because he'll get credit for the nine months served since his arrest. He pleaded guilty in August to dog fighting crimes.
Authorities rescued more than 40 dogs, mostly pit bulls. Some have died, but the Humane Society of Kent County is allowed to keep at least 11 for possible adoption by new owners.
Gates' sentence Wednesday was enhanced by his extensive criminal record. Martin Phillips of Bad Axe recently was sentenced to six months in prison, and B. Jay Rodriguez of Adrian was placed on probation.
