DOYLESTOWN, Pa. (KYW Newsradio) — Authorities busted a cockfighting ring in Bucks County over the weekend, with nearly 50 birds recovered.
Cockfighting is a blood sport involving roosters, often to the death, with wagers made on the outcome of the match. It is illegal in all 50 states.
Plumstead Township police on Sunday received a tip about an active cockfight at a property in Doylestown. Responding officers found a plywood enclosure inside a two-car garage, with a pair of roosters in the middle of a fight.
Cindy Kelly, with the Bucks County SPCA, says two-dozen people watching and participating in the fight scrambled, leaving 21-year-old Cesar Cordova-Morales of Oxford.
“He was holding paraphernalia that people use for cockfighting, [such as] cutting instruments, bottles of steroids, sharp blade-like spurs that they attached to their legs so they inflict more harm on each other,” said Kelly.
Cordova-Morales was arrested and held on $50,000 bail. He faces third-degree animal cruelty charges.
As for the birds, Kelly says they’re evidence. “Until this case is processed in court, we will be responsible for their care,” she said.
The investigation is ongoing and authorities expect to charge others who are involved.