127 Birds Seized In VA Cockfighting Investigation

SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY, VA — Deputies seized 127 birds and a dog from a Spotsylvania County property Friday as part of an investigation into a suspected cockfighting operation, the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office said.

Deputies with the sheriff’s office and the Virginia Animal Fighting Task Force executed a search warrant in the 6900 block of Old Courthouse Road, according to Lt. Col. Delbert Myrick.

The investigation began after a deputy responded to the home for an unrelated call for service and noticed activity that appeared consistent with animal fighting, Myrick said. The deputy reported the information to the Animal Control Division, which began an investigation.

With help from the Virginia Animal Fighting Task Force, authorities obtained and executed the search warrant, Myrick said.

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During the search, investigators seized 21 roosters, 26 hens, 80 juvenile or undetermined-sex chicks and one Great Pyrenees dog, according to the sheriff’s office.

Investigators also recovered evidence consistent with the operation of a cockfighting enterprise, Myrick said.

The investigation remains active as the Animal Control Division continues to work with the Spotsylvania Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, authorities said.

Anyone with information may contact Crime Solvers at 1-800-928-5822 or 1-540-582-5822. Tips also may be submitted online at p3tips.com or spotsylvaniacrimesolvers.org, or through the P3 Tips app.