A 59-year-old Lakewood man has been arrested for investigation of 47 counts of animal fighting, four counts of cruelty to animals and one count of contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
Rafael Gonzalez was arrested Saturday at a home in the 49000 block of Weld County Road 96, east of Briggsdale in unincorporated Weld County.
Weld County Sheriff’s Office deputies found 47 live roosters. One of the roosters was injured and was wearing cockfighting paraphernalia, according to a news release from the sheriff’s office.
Animal Control officers brought the roosters to the Avian Health Program at Colorado State University’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, a CSU spokeswoman said. The roosters, which were examined and tested as part of the Colorado Avian Health Program, are considered evidence in the case
Gonzalez remains confined in the Weld County North Jail Complex without bond.
“The Sheriff’s Office wants to remind the public that rooster fighting is illegal in Colorado,” the news release says.
Cockfighting is associated with gambling. Thousands of dollars change hands during a single event. Participants often carry guns and knives, drink alcohol and use illegal drugs, the news release says.
