Hacienda Heights Man Charged with Dog Fighting and Firearm Possession

Authorities allege Raymond Nuñez operated an illegal dog fighting ring and illegally possessed firearms.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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A 53-year-old man from Hacienda Heights, California, was charged Wednesday with allegedly operating an illegal dog fighting ring and possessing firearms, authorities announced. Federal agents executed a search warrant at Nuñez's home and found an AK-47, 10 additional firearms, an emaciated pit bull, another pit bull with scars, and various items used in dog fighting.

Why it matters

Cases involving both animal cruelty and illegal firearms possession often indicate a broader disregard for the law and potential risk to public safety. Thorough investigation is crucial to ensure all involved parties are held accountable.

The details

Raymond Nuñez was arrested and charged at the downtown Los Angeles federal courthouse. He faces charges related to an animal fighting venture, including breeding, training, and exhibiting dogs for fighting. He is also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm. The search of Nuñez's home yielded the firearms, the injured pit bulls, and items used in the alleged dog fighting operation, such as dog treadmills, a scale, a skin stapler, and syringes.

  • Nuñez was arrested on Wednesday, March 5, 2026.
  • The alleged dog fighting operation ran from at least December 2025 through February 2026.

The players

Raymond Nuñez

A 53-year-old man from Hacienda Heights, California, who was charged with operating an illegal dog fighting ring and possessing firearms as a felon.

FBI

The federal law enforcement agency that is investigating the case along with the United States Marshal.

U.S. Attorney's Office

The federal prosecutorial agency that announced the charges against Nuñez.

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What’s next

A possible next step is a preliminary hearing where evidence will be presented to determine if the case proceeds to trial. It's also likely that further investigation will occur to determine the full scope of the alleged dog fighting operation and any potential co-conspirators.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of vigilance and community involvement in combating animal cruelty and illegal activities that pose a threat to public safety. By working with law enforcement, the public can help ensure that all perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.