Over 50 people have been charged after a chicken-fighting ring was busted by Kentucky State Police.
State police, while investigating an animal cruelty complaint in Casey County on Saturday, discovered a chicken fighting event on Riffe Creek Road in Dunnville.
Troopers made contact with numerous individuals involved in the illegal activity, as police shut down the event that boasted seating for about 500 spectators.
In total 54 people were cited for second-degree cruelty to animals.
The bust follows the recent federal sentencing of several people involved in a cockfighting operation in Whitesburg, according to Animal Wellness Action.org. The owner, Robert D. Baker, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit animal fighting, a federal felony.
As part of a plea agreement, Baker dismantled the venue and forfeited $85,395.
Court records identified Baker’s facility in Isom in Letcher County was known as the Whitesburg Chicken Pit or American Testing Facility.
The venue featured seating for approximately 500 people, a concession stand, a main fighting pit, a rooster-weighing station, and an area for sharpening metal gaffs, Animal Wellness Action.org reports. These gaffs were attached to the roosters’ legs during fights to inflict cuts on opponents.
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
