Cockfighting - over 15 birds seized
Philadelphia, PA (US)

Incident Date: Friday, Oct 3, 2008
County: Philadelphia

Disposition: Alleged

Abuser names unreleased

Authorities said Friday that agents from the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals raided a house in Philadelphia and discovered dozens of birds they said were being used in cockfights.

The PSPCA is investigating numerous cases of alleged animal cruelty at two houses in North Philadelphia and is also looking for a man seen running from the home.

Darlene Sosa of the PSPCA said a total of five roosters, approximately 10 hens and some baby chicks were found. Sosa said the birds were discovered after the roosters were heard near Clearfield and Sixth. Sosa said there was evidence of a cockfighting ring.

Sosa said some of the birds were dressed for fighting, though they were mostly hens. A fighting ring was found in the basement, as well as some paraphernalia used for cockfighting. Some roosters had their crowns removed, while there were birds with shaved stomachs.

Residents and the animal rescuers also said this isn't the first time officials have served a search warrant at the home.

Sosa also said a man who fled from the house and ran into a home a few doors away hasn't been caught. Teams raided that house as well, and Sosa said they found a dog and cat in unsanitary conditions. The man surrendered the animals to authorities.

Neighbors said they are often afraid to call police when they suspect cockfighting, because they fear retaliation. The PSPCA said many of the birds will have to be euthanized because they are too aggressive.

References

• « PA State Animal Cruelty Map

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