Hesperia, CA — A major illegal cockfighting operation was dismantled on Sunday morning in Hesperia, leading to the arrest of 26 suspects and the rescue of dozens of birds, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. Deputies also seized firearms, cash, and evidence of organized animal fighting during the raid.
Deputies Respond to Disturbance Call
The investigation began when Hesperia Station deputies responded to a disturbance report at a commercial property located in the 17100 block of Darwin Avenue. Upon arrival, multiple individuals fled the scene, leaving behind an active cockfight already in progress.
Deputies from the nearby Victorville Station, with the assistance of a Sheriff’s helicopter, joined the operation. The combined law enforcement response led to the detention of 26 individuals, all suspected of participating in or facilitating the illegal cockfighting event.
Evidence of Organized Animal Fighting
Following the arrests, investigators obtained and executed a search warrant for the property. During the search, deputies recovered 56 live roosters, each kept in individual cages, along with 24 dead birds believed to have been killed during or prior to the event.
Authorities also discovered a cockfighting ring, scorecards, metal gaffs used as weapons, catering equipment, and other materials consistent with large-scale animal fighting operations.
In addition, law enforcement seized five firearms and approximately $28,000 in cash, which was found both inside the building and in vehicles parked nearby.
Cockfighting Illegal Across the U.S.
While cockfighting remains legal in certain countries, it is strictly prohibited in the United States, where it is classified as a felony offense in most states, including California, as per KTLA.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department issued a statement emphasizing its firm stance against such activities, noting that it “takes these investigations very seriously and will pursue them to the fullest extent of the law.”
Suspects Booked on Felony Charges
The 26 suspects, ranging in age from 21 to 67, were identified as residents of various cities across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties. All were booked into the High Desert Detention Center in Adelanto, where they await felony animal cruelty and illegal gambling charges.
Officials have not yet released the suspects’ names pending formal filing of charges by the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate whether the cockfighting operation is linked to larger organized networks involved in illegal gambling and animal cruelty. The rescued birds are being evaluated, and some may be transferred to animal welfare organizations for care and rehabilitation.
Anyone with additional information regarding this illegal cockfighting operation is urged to contact the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department or WeTip Anonymous Hotline.
What are your thoughts on the ongoing problem of illegal animal fighting in Southern California? Do you think stricter penalties are needed to prevent cruelty to animals? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
