Cockfighting - over two dozen seized
Bronx, NY (US)

Incident Date: Saturday, Mar 12, 2005
County: Bronx

Disposition: Alleged

Alleged: Orlando Fernandez

A Bronx man was arrested by animal-control officers for allegedly training birds for cockfighting near his home. Orlando Fernandez, 54, was arrested at his home after weeks of surveillance.

Authorities found more than two dozen birds in individual cages, a scale, hypodermic syringes, and drugs and vitamins used in cockfighting.

Fifteen birds were surgically altered for the illicit sport -- spurs sharpened, chests shaved, and fleshy combs and waddles removed, Authorities stated.

The altered birds were euthanized. The remaining birds were taken away by city Animal Care and Control officers.

Agents with the animal-control agency gathered more evidence before making the arrest, but they never observed suspects promoting cockfighting, a felony offense.

Fernandez is being charged with 15 counts of animal cruelty, all misdemeanor charges punishable by up to a year in jail.

References

• nynewsday.com - March 13, 2005
• 1010Wins - March 13, 2005

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