In a joint operation between the Narcotics Division and the Miami-Dade Sheriff's Office, authorities dismantled an illegal fighting rooster breeding facility at a residence located at 1302 SW 203rd Avenue.
The raid, which initially aimed to find narcotics, revealed an illegal animal fighting operation and ended with the arrest of a 52-year-old man.
The detainee, identified as Darlin Sánchez Alarcón, told the agents that he was merely the caretaker of the roosters and that he received a payment of 50 dollars a week for that job. However, there were indications of a greater involvement of the man in animal cruelty offenses.
In the location, the officers found a dozen roosters raised for illegal fights. The animals were in cages, and there were specific tools used for their training. Additionally, the authorities discovered 30 grams of cocaine and 700 grams of cannabis (marijuana).
Sánchez Alarcón faces multiple charges, including organizing animal fights, animal cruelty, and possession and distribution of drugs.
Currently, he is being held in a county jail, with a bail set at over $7,000. Authorities have reported that the investigation remains open in search of additional individuals involved.
The discovery comes just days after another major operation in the rural area of Redland, also in Miami-Dade County, which resulted in 42 arrests and the seizure of more than 70 roosters used in illegal fights.
The operation was triggered following an emergency call that alerted authorities about a disturbance at a property located at 14287 SW 192nd Avenue.
Upon arrival, the officers from the Sheriff's Department (MDSO) encountered an unusual scene; there were a large number of people gathered and roosters running loose across the grounds. The attendees attempted to flee the area in a hurry.
The recurrence of these types of cases has raised alarms among local authorities, who are intensifying monitoring of illegal breeding facilities and underground fights where acts of animal cruelty and associated criminal activities such as drug trafficking occur.
Frequently asked questions about cockfighting and illegal activities in Miami
What did the police discover when they dismantled the rooster breeding operation in Miami?
The police found an illegal rooster breeding facility for fighting in a residence in Miami, along with 30 grams of cocaine and 700 grams of marijuana. The raid was part of an operation aimed at locating narcotics.
What charges is Darlin Sánchez Alarcón facing?
Darlin Sánchez Alarcón faces charges of organizing animal fights, animal cruelty, and possession and distribution of drugs. He is currently detained with a bail set at over 7,000 dollars.
Why are cockfights considered illegal and dangerous?
Cockfighting is banned in the United States because it is an extreme form of animal cruelty. It involves the use of metal spurs and other instruments that inflict serious injuries on the animals. Furthermore, it is often associated with illegal betting, arms trafficking, and drug-related activities.
What measures are the authorities taking to combat cockfighting in Miami?
Local authorities have increased surveillance on illegal breeding facilities and clandestine events, such as rooster fights, which are often linked to other criminal activities. Joint operations are being conducted among different police divisions to dismantle these networks and prevent future incidents.
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