(Columbus, OH, December 10, 2020) – Columbus Humane executed a search warrant at the home of a man on the Southeast side of Columbus and seized 48 roosters and hens, coupled with other paraphernalia related to cockfighting.
Humane Agents received a complaint that approximately 40 roosters were being kept at a property on the Southeast side of Columbus and were being used for cockfighting. Columbus Humane partnered with Columbus Division of Police and Ohio Department of Agriculture for this seizure and found 46 live birds, 2 birds dead on arrival, sparring muffs, spurs with sharp blades, trophies and ribbons associated with competitions and traveling boxes typically used to transport gamecocks to cockfighting derbies.
“This is a serious offense and a prevalent blood sport still happening in Ohio. We’re here to demonstrate that this violent practice is not tolerated in Franklin County. Now our focus is on ensuring these birds get the proper care they deserve,” said CEO, Rachel D.K. Finney.
Cockfighting is in direct violation of Ohio Revised Code 959.15 which states, “(A) No person shall knowingly do either of the following: (1) Engage in cockfighting, bearbaiting, or pitting an animal against another; (2) Use, train, or possess any animal for seizing, detaining, or maltreating a domestic animal.”
Violators of this section of the revised code are subject to face misdemeanor of the fourth degree.
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About Columbus Humane
Columbus Humane, founded in 1883, provides programs and services for animals and people in Central Ohio. It is our mission to fight animal cruelty, help animals in need and advocate for their well-being. We are a non-profit law enforcement agency investigating reports of animal cruelty abuse and neglect in Franklin County. Columbus Humane investigates more than 6,000 reports of animal cruelty and neglect in Franklin County annually. For more information about Columbus Humane, please visit www.columbushumane.org.
