Broward teacher fired after dogfighting conviction
Boyd H. Anderson High School teacher terminated more than a month after receiving two-year probation sentence for operating dogfighting ring.
A Broward County high school teacher described as one of South Florida’s most prominent dogfighters was fired from his position at Boyd H. Anderson High School, more than a month after receiving a two-year probation sentence.
The Broward County School Board terminated the teacher following his criminal conviction for operating an illegal dogfighting operation. The dismissal came 35 days after a judge sentenced him to probation in December.
According to court records, the teacher had been operating what prosecutors called a significant dogfighting ring in South Florida. The case represents one of the region’s most high-profile animal cruelty prosecutions in recent years, highlighting ongoing issues with underground animal fighting operations across news and local government matters.
The teacher’s employment status remained unclear for weeks following his sentencing, as the school district reviewed the criminal case. Broward County Public Schools policy requires termination of employees convicted of felony charges related to animal cruelty.
Boyd H. Anderson High School, located in Lauderdale Lakes, serves approximately 2,000 students. The school has not announced replacement plans for the terminated teacher’s position.
Dogfighting operations have persisted across South Florida despite increased law enforcement attention. The illegal practice involves forcing dogs to fight for entertainment and gambling, often resulting in severe injuries or death to the animals involved.
Prosecutors built their case through a lengthy investigation that uncovered evidence of the teacher’s central role in organizing fights and maintaining fighting dogs. The operation allegedly drew participants from across the region.
The two-year probation sentence also includes community service requirements and prohibits the defendant from owning or caring for animals during the supervision period. Violation of probation terms could result in imprisonment.
Broward school officials declined to provide details about the internal review process that led to the termination. District policy typically allows for administrative leave pending resolution of criminal cases, followed by employment decisions based on conviction outcomes.
The case adds to a series of high-profile criminal cases involving South Florida residents, as local law enforcement agencies continue targeting illegal gambling and animal cruelty operations.
Animal welfare advocates have praised the prosecution and termination, arguing that educators convicted of animal cruelty should not remain in positions of authority over students. The conviction sends a message about accountability for those involved in organized animal abuse.
The school district has not announced whether it will seek restitution for costs associated with the teacher’s administrative leave or replacement during the criminal proceedings.
Students and parents at Boyd H. Anderson received notification of the teacher’s termination through official school communications. The district emphasized its commitment to maintaining safe learning environments and upholding professional standards for all employees.
This case represents the latest in ongoing efforts by South Florida law enforcement to dismantle illegal dogfighting networks operating throughout Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach counties.