HENDRICKS COUNTY, Ind. -- More than 100 birds were removed from a Hendricks County home during a cockfighting bust by the Indiana Gaming Commission.
When investigators arrived at the property they found multiple roosters that had been physically altered in ways that are common in bird fighting, such as removal of their combs and wattles. Cockfighting paraphernalia was also found on the property.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is assisting the IGC with evidence collection, medical assessments and transportation of the birds involved to an undisclosed shelter.
This is the third Indiana cockfighting bust that the ASPCA says they have assisted the Indiana Gaming Commission with this year, including one in Pulaski County in February that involved 100 birds and another in Marion County over the summer that involved over 200 birds.
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“Indiana citizens continue to take a stand against animal fighting by reporting suspected activity to us,” said Superintendent Rob Townsend of the Indiana Gaming Commission. “This investigation began with an anonymous tip, and we are pleased that we have been able to work with the Hendricks County Prosecutor’s Office and the ASPCA to shut down this operation.”
During cockfights, birds commonly suffer from injuries including punctured lungs and broken bones, according to the ASPCA. Those injuries are usually the result of knives and dagger-like devices that are surgically attached to the birds.
In Indiana, conducting a cockfight and possession of birds for fighting are both level 6 felonies and punishable by six months to three years in prison each.
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