Deputies bust rooster fighting ring in Fresno Co.
FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – A few dozen people fled a Fresno County rural property after they were found engaging in a rooster fight ring Sunday morning, according to the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies say around 9:30 a.m. they were informed of suspicious activity happening near McKinley Avenue east of Bethel Avenue. The caller claimed it was unusual for that many cars and people to congregate in that area, a mature orange orchard, especially at that time of day.
Investigators report residents suggested a possible rooster fight was taking place. A CHP helicopter assisted and was sent to the scene first to try to get a scope of what was going on and to try to identify the fight organizers.
When deputies arrived on scene they reported several people and vehicles fled the area. Three to four vehicles were stopped leaving the scene but none were definitively identified as organizers.
Detectives say about 20 to 30 people were in attendance. On scene, about 20 live roosters were recovered, two were reported to be suffering from injuries, and about 10 were found dead.
Investigators say there is no reason to believe the owner of the property is affiliated with or even aware of the incident. The owner has since been contacted.
Detectives add it is a crime to be a spectator at these events with penalties ranging from fines to up to a year in jail. Those detained will have their cases submitted to the district attorney’s office.
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