Drug Probe in Washington Reveals Illegal Cockfighting Operation

A police operation in Washington targeting drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession has uncovered an illegal rooster gambling ring. The Moses Lake Police Department (MLPD) announced that several individuals suspected of involvement have been arrested and charged.

An investigation by the Moses Lake Street Crimes Unit (SCU) led to the execution of a search warrant at 10032 Rd N.4 NE in Moses Lake. The SCU received support from the Grant County Sheriff's Office and the Moses Lake Tactical Response Team (TRT). Initially focusing on the suspected sale of methamphetamine and illegal firearm possession, the investigation uncovered a large-scale illegal gambling operation. At the scene, law enforcement found fighting roosters, along with significant amounts of cash, firearms, and drugs. According to a statement from the MLPD, The warrant was part of an SCU investigation into meth sales and unlawful firearm possession. During the service of the warrant, SCU Detectives found evidence of a large-scale illegal rooster fighting operation on the property.

During the operation, six suspects were arrested in total. Among them, two were female, and the remaining four were male. The youngest suspect was 35 years old, while the oldest was 75. According to the MLPD, all six individuals were detained at the Grant County Jail. They are facing various criminal charges, including possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver, illegal gambling, animal fighting, and unlawful possession of a firearm. SCU detectives discovered and seized 7 ounces of heroin and 2 ounces of methamphetamine. Law enforcement also recovered $30,000 in cash and six firearms at the scene. Additionally, police found 71 roosters that had been illegally modified for fighting. These roosters are typically equipped with gaffs, which are sharp, curved steel instruments affixed to their legs. During fights, these gaffs inflict fatal slashes. Some roosters are injected with steroids or drugs to enhance adrenaline and performance in these fights. In Washington state, illegal gambling can be classified as either a misdemeanor or a felony. Penalties can include fines or imprisonment.