Authorities in Miami-Dade County, Florida, detained two individuals on Friday following the discovery of what is suspected to be a cockfighting breeding facility containing hundreds of birds on a property in the southwest region of the county.
According to reports from Telemundo 51, officers from the Hammocks District of the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Department uncovered between 500 and 600 caged roosters, along with a closed-off ring used for training purposes.
The investigation also led to the discovery of numerous items commonly associated with illegal cockfighting activities, including significant amounts of vitamins, syringes, medications, and devices used to provoke the roosters.
The suspects have been identified as Jorge Soto, aged 57, and Leonardo Ortiz, aged 63. Authorities noted that Ortiz has a substantial criminal record linked to animal cruelty offenses documented in various legal cases.
During subsequent interviews after being read their rights, Soto claimed he does not reside on the property but visits several times a week at Ortiz's request to assist in caring for the roosters.
Ortiz stated he has lived on the premises for less than 30 days and claimed ownership of some of the roosters located in a section of the land. However, he denied raising them for fights and asserted that other birds belong to an unidentified individual also residing on the property.
Both men were taken to the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center by officers from the Hammocks District.
Continued Crackdown on Illegal Cockfighting in Southwest Miami-Dade
This incident is part of a broader campaign against cockfighting in the southwest Miami-Dade area over the past year.
In May 2025, the Sheriff's Department dismantled a large network in the rural Redland area, which led to 42 arrests, the seizure of 72 roosters, and $39,147 in cash.
Days later, a joint operation at 1302 SW 203rd Avenue uncovered another clandestine breeding site with a dozen roosters, along with 30 grams of cocaine and 700 grams of marijuana.
Cockfighting is illegal throughout Florida under Statute 828.122, classified as a third-degree felony with penalties of up to five years in prison and fines reaching $5,000.
"Animal fights are not only inhumane but are often linked to other serious crimes. The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office remains committed to protecting both people and animals in our community," stated the agency.
Understanding the Legal Implications of Cockfighting in Florida
What are the legal consequences of cockfighting in Florida?
Cockfighting is illegal in Florida, categorized as a third-degree felony under Statute 828.122. Offenders can face up to five years in prison and fines up to $5,000.
How is the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office addressing cockfighting?
The Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office is actively involved in operations to dismantle cockfighting rings, as evidenced by recent arrests and seizures of roosters and related paraphernalia.
What other crimes are often associated with cockfighting?
Cockfighting is frequently linked to other illegal activities, including drug trafficking and gambling, as these environments often facilitate additional criminal behavior.