An undercover operation in southwest Miami-Dade culminated in the , resulting in the arrest of 42 individuals and the seizure of over $39,000 in cash, according to local authorities.
Last Friday, agents from the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Department responded to a 911 call reporting a fight that could involve weapons at a rural property located in the 14000 block of Southwest 192nd Avenue, according to Local 10 News.
Upon arriving at the location, the officers found a crowd gathered and numerous loose roosters in the area. Some individuals attempted to flee, but they were quickly apprehended. One of those arrested was carrying cockfighting spurs, a device commonly used in these illegal fights.
The subsequent investigation, led by the Office of Organized Crime and the Intelligence and Vices Unit of the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office (MDSO), resulted in the identification and arrest of 42 individuals involved in the organization and facilitation of animal fights, as well as resisting arrest without violence. Additionally, 72 roosters were seized, along with $39,147 in cash, allegedly from illegal gambling.
According to Local 10 News, the arrest reports identify five of the alleged individuals involved:
Juan González, 53 years old, from Hialeah
Osbel Alfonso, 32 years old, from Hialeah
Frank Miguel Delgado Casas, 36 years old
Tomás La Rosa Hernández, 34 years old
Dennis Chov Moreno, 53 years old
Everyone faces a charge for attending or inciting an animal fight.
In addition, CBS Miami reported that La Rosa Hernández and Moreno appeared in bail court this Monday. Seven other detainees have already posted bail, among them:
Luisor Barrios, 46 years old
Xonia Rivero, 52 years old
Jorge González-Díaz, 35 years old
Félix Arrocha, 43 years old
Fernando Franchi Alfaro, 59 years old
Frank Miguel Delgado Casas, 36 years old
Osbel Alfonso, 32 years old
"This type of cruelty and illegal activity has no place in our community," stated the 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 the people and animals in our community," he added.
An illegal and dangerous practice
Cockfighting is prohibited in the United States and is considered an extreme form of animal cruelty.
Fights often involve the use of metal spurs and other instruments that inflict severe injuries and even death to the animals.
Additionally, according to multiple investigations, this type of illegal event is often linked to underground betting, arms trafficking, drug trade, and other organized crimes.
Frequently Asked Questions about the dismantling of the cockfighting network in Miami-Dade
What happened in the operation against cockfighting in Miami-Dade?
An extensive cockfighting ring was dismantled in southwest Miami-Dade, resulting in the arrest of 42 individuals and the seizure of over $39,000 in cash. The operation was conducted by the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Department after receiving a 911 call about an altercation involving bladed weapons.
What are the legal implications of cockfighting in the United States?
Chicken fighting is banned in the United States and is considered a form of extreme animal cruelty. In addition to being illegal, these events are often associated with serious crimes such as illegal gambling, arms trafficking, and drug trafficking.
What actions did the authorities take during the raid in Miami-Dade?
During the raid, authorities arrested 42 people involved in the organization and facilitation of cockfighting. They also seized 72 roosters and $39,147 in cash, allegedly from illegal betting. This action was part of a broader investigation aimed at combating animal abuse and related criminal activities.
What statement did the sheriff of Miami-Dade County make about cockfighting?
The county sheriff, Rosie Cordero-Stutz, stated that "this type of cruelty and illegal activity has no place in our community". She also emphasized that animal fights are linked to other serious crimes and reaffirmed the Sheriff’s Office commitment to protecting both people and animals in the community.
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