On Wednesday, August 2, 2023, Gaston County Police detectives and specialists with Animal Care and Enforcement, assisted by the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) executed a search warrant at a residence located at 945 E. 6th Ave. Gastonia, NC as part of a dog fighting investigation.
The search warrant was the result of a nearly two-month-long investigation into a report of numerous dogs at the location being used for dog fighting. The Human Society of the United States was contacted to assist in evaluating and rescuing the dogs at the residence. Fourteen (14) dogs were located during the search and seized. The dogs were rescued by the HSUS and taken for medical treatment and further evaluation.
On Saturday, August 5th, 2023, the Gaston County F.A.S.T team arrested the following individuals involved in this case:
Henrique Durant, 945 E. 6th Ave, Gastonia NC, 15 counts of Felony Dog Fighting and 15 counts of Cruelty to Animals. Durant was given a $150,000 secured bond.
Ukema Miller, 945 E. 6th Ave, Gastonia NC, 1 count Misdemeanor Animal Cruelty. Miller was given a $5000.00 secured bond.
The investigation into this case is ongoing. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact Det. J. Brienza at 704-866-3320 or Crimestoppers at 704-861-8000. There is no further information available at this time.
