Authorities say multiple individuals were arrested after deputies uncovered an active cockfighting ring at a rural property near Tonopah over the weekend.
According to the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the site on January 10 following a report from the property’s owner, who lives out of state. The owner had contacted law enforcement after learning there were people on the land without authorization and requested a welfare check.
When deputies arrived, they reportedly saw several people running from the area and found evidence of an ongoing cockfight. Investigators detained several individuals at the scene and began collecting evidence.
Inside the property, deputies found what they described as a full setup for organized cockfighting — including a fighting pit, gambling records, and related equipment. In total, 34 live roosters believed to have been altered for fighting were seized, along with two that were recently deceased.
Officials say the investigation is ongoing, and additional charges may be pending as they continue to identify others involved in the illegal activity.
