Tonopah, AZ – Deputies with the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) uncovered an active cockfighting operation during a welfare check in Tonopah on January 10, 2026, authorities said.
According to MCSO, deputies found a full cockfighting ring, along with live and deceased roosters, altered for fighting. Investigators also seized cockfighting equipment and gambling-related materials from the property.
In total, 34 live roosters and several deceased birds were located. The surviving animals were humanely euthanized by an MCSO-contracted veterinarian with assistance from the Arizona Department of Agriculture, officials confirmed.
Several individuals were arrested and charged in connection with the case. Authorities have not yet released the suspects’ names, and the investigation remains active.
Cockfighting, which involves forcing birds to fight for gambling or entertainment, is illegal in all 50 states and considered a felony offense in Arizona.
MCSO urged anyone with information about illegal animal fighting or related activity in rural Maricopa County to contact the department’s Animal Crimes Unit.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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