http://www.usda.gov/oig/webdocs/BadNewzKennels.pdf
Just skimmed this. It's the USDA's investigation. In reference to your above quote, it appears they were his own family's pets.
For those who believe he paid his debt to society, he served time for one count of "Conspiracy to Travel in Interstate Commerce in Aid of Unlawful Activities and to Sponsor a Dog in an Animal Fight Venture" under federal law.
Had he been charged and convicted in a Virginia court for animal cruelty, for which the law states:
"In Virginia, a first offense that does not result in the death of an animal is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which carries a sentence of twelve months or less and a fine of up to $2500 or both. A person committing a second offense, or if the animal dies as a result of the first offense, is guilty of a Class 6 felony, punishable by up to five years in prison or, in the alternative, a prison sentence of less than a year or a maximum fine of $2500 or both. In addition, the owner of a dog or cat injured or killed as a result of cruelty is entitled to a damage award for the value of the animal or the damage done."
this could have resulted in over 65 years in prison if he was prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law (witnessed involvement in over 20 dog fights, and nine "executions").
Personally, I think 18 months and a $5000 fine is a travesty.