A covert operation in southwest Miami-Dade has led to the dismantling of a large-scale cockfighting ring, resulting in the arrest of 42 individuals and the seizure of over $39,000 in cash, according to local authorities. On Friday, officers from the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Department responded to a 911 call reporting a potential knife fight at a rural property located in the 14000 block of Southwest 192nd Avenue, as reported by Local 10 News.
Upon arrival, officers discovered a crowd gathered and numerous roosters roaming freely. Several individuals attempted to flee but were swiftly detained. One of those arrested was found with rooster spurs, a tool commonly used in these illegal fights.
Crackdown on Illegal Animal Fights
Subsequent investigations, spearheaded by the Organized Crimes Bureau and the Intelligence and Vice Unit of the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office (MDSO), identified and arrested 42 individuals involved in organizing and attending animal fights, as well as resisting arrest without violence. Additionally, 72 roosters were confiscated, and $39,147 in cash, believed to be from illegal gambling, was seized.
According to Local 10 News, arrest reports named five of the suspected participants: Juan González, 53, from Hialeah; Osbel Alfonso, 32, from Hialeah; Frank Miguel Delgado Casas, 36; Tomás La Rosa Hernández, 34; and Dennis Chov Moreno, 53. They all face charges related to attending or instigating an animal fight.
Legal Proceedings and Community Response
CBS Miami reported that La Rosa Hernández and Moreno appeared in bond court on Monday. Seven other detainees have already posted bail, including Luisor Barrios, 46; Xonia Rivero, 52; Jorge González-Díaz, 35; Félix Arrocha, 43; Fernando Franchi Alfaro, 59; Frank Miguel Delgado Casas, 36; and Osbel Alfonso, 32.
"This kind of cruelty and illegal activity has no place in our community," stated County Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz. "Animal fights are not only inhumane, but they are often linked to other serious crimes. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office remains committed to protecting both citizens and animals in our community," she added.
The Hazards of Cockfighting
Cockfighting is banned in the United States and is considered a severe form of animal cruelty. These fights typically involve the use of metal spurs and other instruments that inflict severe injuries or even death on the animals. Moreover, multiple investigations indicate that such illegal events are frequently connected to underground gambling, arms trafficking, drugs, and other organized crimes.
FAQs on Cockfighting Bust in Miami-Dade
What charges are the suspects facing in the Miami-Dade cockfighting case?
The suspects are facing charges related to attending or instigating animal fights, and some are also charged with resisting arrest without violence.
How much money was seized in the operation?
Authorities confiscated $39,147 in cash, which is suspected to have originated from illegal gambling activities.
Why is cockfighting considered dangerous and illegal?
Cockfighting is illegal because it involves severe animal cruelty, with fights often leading to serious injuries or death for the animals. Additionally, it is associated with other crimes like illegal gambling and trafficking.