This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Animals still need your help.

Cockfighting is a sickeningly cruel blood sport that pits roosters against each other in fights to the death for gambling and entertainment, and even though it's illegal in every state, it still persists. A recent case in Louisiana brought to light the horrors these innocent birds face as a result. The district attorney must pursue this case and seek the maximum penalties the law will allow!

In September 2020, authorities in St. Mary Parish began an investigation into Jesus Fernandez and his possible involvement with cockfighting and drug trafficking . This past August, he was caught at a traffic stop and found to be in possession of birds in cages who were believed to be used in cockfights as well as drugs and drug paraphernalia. He was arrested, but unfortunately was later released on bond.

Days later, a search warrant executed at a residence uncovered an undisclosed number of dead birds, and resulted in the seizure of 166 surviving chickens and more than a dozen sheep and goats who were found in poor condition without adequate food or water.

As part of the investigation, two more people, Artemio Rodriguez and Maria Ortiz, were also arrested on a warrant for animal cruelty.

Charges for Rodriguez and Ortiz have not yet been released, but Fernandez is now facing 147 counts of cockfighting and 151 counts of animal cruelty.

Louisiana was the last state in the U.S. to ban cockfighting in 2007 with only the territory of Puerto Rico allowing it, but the law has since been updated to strengthen penalties and send a message that this type of cruelty won't be tolerated.

This alert is no longer active, but here for reference. Animals still need your help.