Rooster farm may be used for fight training
On Wednesday, Apopka Police Officers responded to the 1700 block of South Apopka Boulevard to meet with a caller who was concerned about cockfighting on the property.
Officers found more than 200 roosters at the property but no indication there was active cockfighting on the premises. A follow-up with Orange County Animal Control and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Agricultural Crimes Unit yesterday led to probable cause to believe the roosters were being prepared for fighting.
Preparing involves separating the animals, trimming feathers, and trimming the bird’s cones. Found on the property were makeshift corrals and fences, along with several round rooster cages containing individual birds. Officers also interviewed the occupants of the property who indicated that fighting was not done on the premises because it is illegal, however, the animals were raised and prepped, in order for them to be sent to places outside Florida where they can fight.
“Unfortunately, offenders believe that the act of preparing or training an animal to fight is not a crime,” stated Police Chief Michael McKinley, “the Apopka Police Department takes this offense, in addition to the actual offense of fighting the animals, seriously and will continue to actively investigate any allegations of abuse.”
The following suspects were arrested: Jose Antonio Perez- Sanchez 69, and Edy Domingo Dejesus Ramos, 49. Both men were charged with Conservation of Animals- Selling and Possessing the use of Animals to Fight or Bait and Conservation of Animals- to Sell or Possess Equipment For Animal Fight Bait.
This is a developing investigation and further information will be released when it is available. The Apopka Voice will update this story as more details are released.
