Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s deputies and animal control officers found approximately 200 roosters during a search of an apparent cockfighting pit. The roosters were found to have been mutilated so that knives could be attached to them.
The deputies discovered the cockfighting pit while responding to the 30000 block of Highland Way at around 11:45 AM for an unrelated welfare check.
According to authorities, the deputies obtained a warrant and spent the night searching the property. Aside from the birds, 10 firearms were also found.
In a social media post, the Santa Cruz County officials wrote, “While the scene was being processed, deputies ensured to feed and give water to the hungry birds.”
Juan Buenrosto Ochoa, 40, was later arrested in connection with the search, the authorities said. The investigation is ongoing.
