Arrests follow cockfighting bust in western Wisconsin

Authorities in western Wisconsin arrested three people Tuesday in connection with four alleged cockfighting rings.

An anonymous tip led law enforcement from Polk and St. Croix counties to farms and rural homes where the cockfighting was allegedly taking place.

Investigators found around 1,200 roosters, hens and chicks living in cages or makeshift enclosures without access to food or water. They also discovered cockfighting paraphernalia including a fighting pit and gaffs, or knives, that are put on the birds to increase injuries.

Polk County Sheriff's Capt. Steven Smith said American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) officials are at the scene to help with the investigation. They continue to look for signs the birds were harmed.

"Things that have been done to the roosters that would label them as fighting roosters: they shave the crop on their head, they nip the spurs on their legs," he said.

The ASPCA brought two mobile hospitals and nearly 100 staff members to help with the investigation, Smith said. Officials are investigating three properties in Polk County and one in St. Croix County.

He said cockfighting and animal fighting in general is a "very lucrative business. A lot of money changes hands through animal fighting."

Tim Rickey, vice president of ASPCA field investigations and response, said cockfighting is often associated with other crimes.

"Not only is cockfighting cruel, but it often brings other crimes to communities, such as illegal gambling and drug possession," he said.

Cockfighting in Wisconsin is a felony punishable by up to three years, six months in a state prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. Being a spectator carries misdemeanor penalties.