NEWARK, N.J. – U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger and Assistant Attorney General Todd S. Kim of the Environment and Natural Resources Division of the U.S. Department of Justice have announced charges against two South Jersey men for their involvement in a dog-fighting ring. This criminal operation, known as the “DMV Board,” was conducted through the Telegram messaging platform and spanned several states.
Tommy J. Watson, 43, of Clayton, New Jersey, and Johnnie Lee Nelson, 34, of Bridgeton, New Jersey, are accused of conspiring to violate the Animal Welfare Act from August 2017 through March 2019. Their activities included fighting, training, transporting, and possessing pit bull-type dogs for dog-fighting ventures. Watson, also known as “Snakes,” operated “From Da Bottom Kennels.” This kennel advertised bloodline information of fighting dogs on the website “Peds Online” and shared videos of dog fights and training sessions on the DMV Board.
Watson faces separate counts under the Animal Welfare Act for engaging in dog fights on December 2, 2018, and for planning another fight on March 23, 2019, with a dog named Rambo and do-it-yourself veterinary equipment. This planned fight was thwarted by law enforcement, who found two other dogs that had already fought at the intended location. Both Watson and Nelson are charged with possessing and training Rambo for this fight.
Additionally, Watson is charged with being a felon in possession of ammunition.
Watson surrendered to authorities and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sharon A. King in Camden federal court. Nelson was arrested on December 5, 2023, and has also appeared before Judge King.
The charges under the Animal Welfare Act and the conspiracy count each carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The ammunition possession charge against Watson could result in up to ten years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000.
