PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — South Jersey police have arrested more than 50 people connected to an illegal cockfighting ring.
Officers executed a search warrant on a home in Galloway Township on Saturday. Inside, police found a “large group of individuals,” many of whom tried to flee, the Galloway Township Police Department said.
During the rest of their search, police found an “elaborate cockfighting operation,” including a cockfighting ring, seating for attendees and other tools. They also found about 50 roosters in cages, boxes and bags, all displaying “various degrees of health.”
In all, 52 people were charged, ranging in age from 23 to 76. The roosters were recovered and relocated. Officials also seized more than $37,000 in cash and four dogs that were living in “inhumane conditions” in an outdoor shed.
The homeowner, Jose Madera, was arrested on-site and charged with numerous animal cruelty offenses, as well as possession of a controlled dangerous substance, destruction of evidence, and resisting arrest.
Court dates for the dozens charged have not yet been scheduled.