Alleged cockfighting operation shutdown in East Valley

No arrests have been made after 134 roosters, which were bred for fighting, were found Thursday afternoon in the East Valley. Police were called to the 76600 block of Harrison Street on a report of animal cruelty.

Officers found the birds and some weapons that would suggest the roosters were used for illegal fighting.

Animal services with Riverside County were called to the property as well.

When rescuers arrived, they found that some birds had recently been injured and they also discovered weapons used for illegal cockfights called gaffs, which are similar to a nail with a sharpened point, according to the Humane Society.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department was called in to secure the property.

The owner of the property signed the birds over for humane euthanasia.

No suspects have been named in the illegal operation and police don’t know who owned the birds. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is investigating.

If you have information, please ask for Deputy Worden, the agricultural liaison, at the Thermal Station, 760) 836-3215.

Images: 134 roosters found in animal cruelty case