UK-WIDE DOG-FIGHTING RING BUSTED: GARY ADAMSON AND OTHERS SENTENCED IN MAJOR CRACKDOWN

A comprehensive crackdown on one of the United Kingdom's most notorious dog-fighting networks has led to the arrest and conviction of several individuals involved in this cruel and illegal activity. The operation, carried out by the RSPCA’s specialized units under the names Operations Cannon and Castle, uncovered a widespread and deeply entrenched dog-fighting ring operating across various locations throughout the country, including Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough, Birmingham, Mansfield, Newark, Gainsborough, and beyond.

Investigative efforts were significantly bolstered by undercover footage obtained during a BBC Panorama investigation into organized dog fighting and the infamous gang known as the Farmers’ Boys. This footage provided crucial visual evidence that helped law enforcement authorities build their case against the suspects. One of the most disturbing clips showed Gary Adamson, a key figure in the ring, proudly preparing a dog named Pablo for a fight. The video captured Adamson pulling the nervous-looking animal by its collar, revealing multiple white scars, a torn ear, and stapled wounds, evidence of the brutal fights the dogs endured.

In the footage, Adamson, who styled himself as the 'Don King' of dog fighting, openly discussed the activities and named some of the attendees involved in these illegal events. The investigation also tracked down other members of the gang, including Adamson’s ex-wife, Jane Adamson, also known as Jane Barnes. She was secretly filmed at a dog fight, and during police interviews, she admitted, “I just did what I had to do,” reflecting her involvement and possible complicity in the illegal activities.

Authorities conducted searches at multiple premises linked to the suspects, uncovering a range of equipment used for training and fighting dogs. These included treadmills, veterinary kits, training aids, and prescription-only drugs. Many of the properties featured elaborate kennel setups, with several pit bull-type dogs bearing scars consistent with previous fights. One particularly disturbing find was a bloodstained fighting pit constructed inside Claire Parker’s garage, believed to be the site of the fight described by Adamson. Parker’s property also housed three pit bull-type dogs and a complex system of kennels and training equipment.

Claire Parker, also known as Claire Page, denied all charges but was ultimately found guilty of being present at a dog fight, maintaining a premises for dog fighting, and possessing three pit bull dogs. She received an 18-week prison sentence and was banned from keeping animals for ten years, a ban that expired in 2019. Her late husband, John Parker, was also due to face trial on similar charges but died in prison before the proceedings could take place.

Gary Adamson, residing at 9 Seymour Avenue, Eaglescliffe, Stockton-on-Tees, pleaded guilty to six charges related to illegal dog fighting activities. He was sentenced to 23 weeks in prison and received a lifetime ban on keeping animals. Adamson had previously boasted about his role in the illegal trade, claiming to be the 'Don King' of dog fighting and being a prominent breeder and trader of bull terriers.

Mohammed Farooq, from 43 Daniels Road, Birmingham, was convicted on two counts of causing unnecessary suffering to animals and possessing training equipment used for dog fighting. He was sentenced to the maximum 26 weeks in prison and was banned from keeping any animals for life.

Owen Batey, of 44 Cannock Road, Middlesbrough, admitted to setting two pit bulls against each other, being present at a dog fight, and owning a pit bull. He was sentenced to 23 weeks in jail and was disqualified from keeping animals for life.

Christopher Burgess, residing at 44 Nursery Court, Mansfield, pleaded guilty to keeping a banned dog and was sentenced to 160 hours of community service. Meanwhile, Kenneth King of East Markham, Newark, admitted to eight charges, including participating in dog fights. He was sentenced to 23 weeks in prison and received a lifetime ban on keeping animals.

Jane Adamson, formerly of Pacific Drive, Stockton-on-Tees, admitted to causing unnecessary suffering to a pit bull terrier named Pablo by neglecting to seek veterinary care for injuries sustained during a fight. She was given an 18-month community order, ordered to pay £150 in costs, and was banned from keeping dogs for ten years, a ban that expired in 2019.

An unidentified 17-year-old youth was also convicted of causing unnecessary suffering and possessing dog-fighting equipment. He received a six-month referral order and a five-year ban from owning or keeping animals.

Despite some appeals, most of the convictions stood, and the case drew significant media attention. During the court proceedings, a violent altercation broke out inside the courtroom, resulting in Kenneth King sustaining head injuries. Police had to deploy a taser to subdue Christopher Burgess after the incident.

In a related incident in February 2021, Claire Parker was sentenced to four and a half years in prison after she caused a fatal car crash while driving at approximately 80 mph in Gainsborough. She crossed double white lines, overtook two cars and a double-decker bus, and collided with a vehicle carrying a devoted couple, resulting in their deaths. This tragic event further highlighted her reckless behavior and criminal record.