4 men, including former deputy, charged in dogfighting investigation

JEFFERSON, S.C. – Four men, including a former Chesterfield County deputy, are facing charges in connection to a dogfighting investigation, according to the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division.

Lonnie Gaskins, 27, was charged with eight counts of animal fighting or baiting, ill treatment of animals, and criminal conspiracy. Gaskins was employed by the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office prior to his arrest but has since been terminated.

On Tuesday, agents executed a search warrant at Gaskins’ residence in Jefferson, South Carolina and found 27 pit bull-type dogs. SLED said these dogs were malnourished and that 23 of them had injuries consistent with dogfighting. Humane World for Animals said several dogs were missing chunks of their ears or lips.

According to the warrants, the dogs were tethered by a chain and weren’t provided with adequate housing to protect them. Agents said they also found videos of Gaskins encouraging the dogs to fight.

“The scars covering their bodies, and the ground worn beneath their chains told a story of a painful, lonely past. The sense of relief and hope was palpable as we freed each dog and carried them to safety.” said Janell Gregory, South Carolina state director, Humane World for Animals. “We are honored to work alongside SLED on another rescue operation, and another step toward dismantling dogfighting networks in South Carolina.”

SLED charged 49-year-old Terry Gaskins with 23 counts of animal fighting or baiting. Shamar Sutton, 31, and Chris Gaskins, 27, were both charged with criminal conspiracy.

The dogfighting had been going on since June 2025. In total, 34 dogs were rescued from the operation.