A Jacksonville drug investigation uncovered something officers did not expect to find behind a Northwest Jacksonville home. A 9-foot alligator was confined in the backyard, while nine dogs and evidence of illegal animal fighting were discovered across two properties.
According to the Fourth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office, a Duval County jury found Marquis Williams guilty of animal-fighting, animal-cruelty, drug and alligator-related charges. The verdict was announced on Aug. 6, more than a year after officers searched his Orlando Avenue home on May 20, 2025.
Williams now faces as many as 65 years in Florida State Prison, although his sentence has not yet been determined. The prosecutor’s release confirms that officers recovered six dogs and a large adult alligator from Williams’ property before finding three more dogs across the street.
News4JAX reported that the alligator measured approximately 9 feet long and lacked adequate access to water in the backyard.
The Search Began as a Drug Investigation
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The sheriff’s SWAT and Narcotics units executed a warrant at Williams’ home near Rowe Avenue and Lem Turner Road. Detectives searched his truck, residence, and surrounding property, where they found cocaine, oxycodone, and marijuana.
Officers also discovered the adult alligator inside a small fenced area in the backyard. Authorities said the enclosure did not provide the animal with access to water. A Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission nuisance-alligator handler removed the animal from the property.
Nine Dogs Were Found Across Two Properties
Six dogs recovered from Williams’ property showed signs of severe neglect, according to prosecutors. Investigators also found equipment and other items associated with dog fighting inside the home and throughout the backyard.
Authorities then obtained a warrant for an associated vacant property across the street. Three additional dogs in poor condition were found there, along with additional equipment associated with animal fighting.
A later search of Williams’ cellphone produced further evidence of illegal dog fighting, the State Attorney’s Office said. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and Duval County Animal Care and Protective Services investigated the case.
The Jury Convicted Williams on Multiple Charges
Williams was convicted of three counts of fighting or baiting animals and nine counts of animal cruelty. The jury also found him guilty of possessing a controlled substance and possessing less than 20 grams of cannabis. The remaining conviction involved Florida’s prohibition against illegally killing, possessing, or capturing alligators, crocodilians, or their eggs.
The verdict replaces the original allegations with criminal convictions, but the maximum possible penalty is not necessarily the sentence Williams will receive. Circuit Judge Anthony Salem is expected to sentence him at a later date.