Ypsilanti Township man violates probation in dog-fighting case

An Ypsilanti Township man convicted of harboring and training dogs for fighting pleaded guilty to violating his probation, court records show. Ricky Lee Lynch Jr. admitted to not paying all of the $15,000 in fines or performing the 500 hours of community service ordered by Washtenaw Circuit Judge David Swartz in March 2008.

He pleaded guilty to four counts of illegal dog fighting earlier that year in a case developed by investigators with the Humane Society of Huron Valley who received a tip about abused dogs. Authorities found 17 pit bulls on his property, and many had wounds and scars consistent with dog fighting. They also found veterinary supplies, fight logs and video equipment. More severe charges were dismissed as part of the deal.

Lynch was sentenced in 2008 to serve five years of probation and $15,000 in fines. Swartz recently ordered Lynch, 29, to pay $2,000 and an additional $475 per month until he completes the terms of the initial sentence, officials said. He must also complete 20 hours of community service per month during the remainder of his probation. Art Aisner is a freelance writer for AnnArbor.com. Reach the news desk at news@annarbor.com or 734-623-2530.