LAPD Shuts Down Montecito Heights Cockfighting Ring

The Los Angeles City Attorney announced on April 4 that a Montecito Heights property owner was arrested for operating a cockfighting operation out of his Rolle Street home.

According to a City Attorney's press release, neighbors called police on January 13 to report an ongoing cockfight at the home of 51-year-old Miguel Escalante.

Escalante was charged with organizing animal fights, trading in implements of fighting birds, including sharp objects designed to be placed on fighting birds, and possession of gamecocks for fighting purposes. Numerous spectators were also charged with one count of knowingly attending a cockfight.

"Escalante faces up to three years in jail and $25,000 in fines. The spectators could each face up to six months in jail and $5,000 in fines. Arraignment for Escalante is scheduled for June 6, 2013 in Department 4 of the East Los Angeles Court. The spectators will be arraigned on June 3 and June 5, 2013," the Los Angeles City Attorney's office stated.

LAPD officers seized $5,800, 35 roosters and 9 hens from Escalante's home in the investigation. According to the city attorney, there was evidence that the animals had been abused. "The birds had been groomed for cockfighting including having their combs and wattles docked and their spurs cut off," the press release states.

One of the roosters was found dead.

h/t The EastsiderLA