Armed Robbery Case Leads to Arrest for Dogfighting, Aggravated Animal Cruelty

Armed Robbery Case Leads to Arrest for Dogfighting, Aggravated Animal Cruelty

Jermaine Lavone Spain, 41, Franklin, LA, was arrested on February 3, 2026, at 11:37 am on a warrant for dogfighting and cruelty to animals-aggravated. 

In an investigation of an armed robbery at a business in Verdunville on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, Jermain Spain was developed as the suspect in the robbery. Investigators also learned that Spain kept several pit bull dogs at a residence in the parish.

On January 22, 2026, detectives executed search warrants at a residence in Centerville and another in Verdunville. Nine dogs were seized at one of the residences. Contact was made with Spain, who had 88 grams of marijuana, as well as THC capsules and drug paraphernalia on his person. In his interview, Spain admitted to selling drugs. He was transported to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center for booking on the charges of armed robbery, pit bull violation (9 counts), possession of marijuana with intent to distribute (2 counts), and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Spain bonded out on the charges as the investigation continued. 

Detectives discovered videos and images of dogfighting on a cellular phone belonging to Spain. The photos depicted dogs that were injured and deceased. The videos depicted dogs fighting as well as injuries and other graphic imagery.

On February 3, 2026, a detective conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle. The driver, identified as Spain, was taken into custody and transported to the St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center for booking.  Bail was set at $235,000.  

The investigation is ongoing.

Lt. David Spencer

Public Information Officer 

St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office