2 Iowans plead guilty to federal dogfighting charges in Missouri

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) - Three men have pleaded guilty to charges stemming from a federal crackdown on dogfighting.

Zachary Connelly, 32, of Ogden, Iowa, pleaded guilty Wednesday to conspiracy to sponsor or exhibit animals for fighting. Ryan Tasler, 42, of Woodward, Iowa, and 29-year-old Julio Reyes of Tecumseh, Neb., also pleaded guilty to the same charge Tuesday.

The U.S. attorney's office for the Western District of Missouri says the men face up to five years in prison and a fine up to $250,000. Sentencing has not been set.

The government also is seeking to have the men reimburse the Humane Society for the cost of caring for their dogs.

The indictment alleged the dogfights took place at a farm in Gilman City, about 100 miles northeast of Kansas City.

Copyright 2009 The Associated Press.