HESPERIA, Calif. — A major illegal cockfighting ring was dismantled in Southern California over the weekend after authorities arrested 26 people and rescued dozens of birds during a raid in Hesperia, officials confirmed Sunday.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, deputies conducted the early-morning operation at a commercial property suspected of hosting underground cockfights. When officers arrived, they found a large-scale setup complete with bird cages, fighting pits, cash, and paraphernalia associated with gambling and animal cruelty.
26 Suspects Taken Into Custody
Authorities said the bust followed weeks of investigation after deputies received reports of suspicious activity and loud gatherings at the location.
When law enforcement moved in, they detained multiple people on-site, recovering evidence of organized gambling operations and entry fees for the illegal fights…