Middle Georgia Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Dogfighting and Drug Crimes

A 45-year-old man from Jones County, Dan Thomas Cleveland Jr., was sentenced to 10 years in prison on Wednesday for multiple charges, including dogfighting, drug distribution, and gun possession. Cleveland pleaded guilty just before his trial was set to begin in Jones County Superior Court.

Following jury selection, he admitted to possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, engaging in dogfighting, and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. The Assistant District Attorney, Cara Fiore, had requested a 20-year sentence; however, Superior Court Judge Terry Massey ultimately sentenced Cleveland to 20 years with 10 years to serve in prison.

Ocmulgee District Attorney T. Wright Barksdale III expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts in the case, stating, “A special thank you goes out to the Jones County Sheriff’s Office, Jones County animal control, and the Prosecuting Attorney’s Council for their assistance and work on this case.”