A rooster fighting and illegal gambling operation was dismantled in San Joaquin County over the weekend, leading to the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of nearly 70 birds.
Deputies from the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of rooster fighting and gambling on Saturday in an area along Atkins Road, east of Lodi. Upon arrival, authorities discovered five dead roosters and several live ones inside boxes.
Further investigation of the property uncovered 30 additional dead roosters and approximately 65 live birds, as well as various items associated with rooster fighting, including gaffs, spurs, and leashes. Deputies also found a wooden fighting arena equipped with “stadium seating” inside a barn-like structure.
Photos released by the Sheriff’s Office show the fighting arena, dead birds, and passenger vehicles inside the barn.
Two individuals were taken into custody and now face charges of animal cruelty and possession of roosters for fighting.
The operation highlights the ongoing battle against illegal animal fighting and gambling in the region. The Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the case.