Some sociologists assert that the way a society treats, or allows animals to be to be treated is a direct reflection of its sophistication and civility. State and federal law, with a few exceptions, strictly prohibits abuse of domestic animals; in particular, ensuring that they are properly fed, cared for, and not abused. Two forms of animal abuse that predominate here in this region are dog and rooster ("cock") fighting. I plan to address dog fighting issues in a later column.
Rooster fighting features birds that are selectively bred for aggression, toughness, to be vicious and fight to the death; they serve no other purpose. They are outfitted with special razors (as artificial spurs) attached to the bird's feet, which are their main offensive weapon. These weapons can be purchased online and come in single and double-edged versions. This activity is claimed by its participants to be a legitimate "sport," with some people even asserting that it is part of their culture and therefore morally acceptable. In fact, the driving force behind cock fighting is the profit behind it. It also satisfies, for some, their thirst for blood, but gambling is the mainstay of cock fighting.
Cock fighting, to be sure, is outlawed in all 50 states in this country and is punishable as a felony, reflecting American society's intolerance of animal mistreatment. It is illegal to possess, raise, train, trade or advertise fighting roosters. The legal system, society as a whole and moral imperative requires that cock fighting be categorically prohibited. It is also the case that law enforcement has established a clear connection between the illegal drug underworld and cock fighting. Cock fighting activities occupy the dark crevices of society.
As is to be expected, certain niches within the Internet serve as forums for cock fighting aficionados where, similar to the legitimate sporting world, they exchange ideas, stories and facts about their pastime. The betting aspect is also carried out via the Internet for larger operations. Make no mistake - cock fighting is a big, albeit underground, industry, with certain stereotypes predominating as participants. Despite the stereotypes, there is also diversity among the players, including affluent business people, elected officials, and the like.
Most cock fighting takes place in highly-controlled environments where strangers are not allowed. Typically, the fights are staged in remote, rural barns where law enforcement is not likely to be present and there is an absence of disagreeable neighbors who would call authorities to report the crime. Cock fighting is prevalent (and legal) in other parts of the world - in places like Afghanistan and Mexico, where it is allowed as a culturally-sanctioned, legal activity.
Cock fighting has no place in our area and, accordingly, the police and the county's animal services department will investigate and take enforcement action against persons and groups engaging in any prohibited aspect of the cockfighting milieu. If, as a citizen, you become aware of this illegal activity, we ask that you promptly notify the appropriate law enforcement agency.
Rooster fighting features birds that are selectively bred for aggression, toughness, to be vicious and fight to the death; they serve no other purpose. They are outfitted with special razors (as artificial spurs) attached to the bird's feet, which are their main offensive weapon. These weapons can be purchased online and come in single and double-edged versions. This activity is claimed by its participants to be a legitimate "sport," with some people even asserting that it is part of their culture and therefore morally acceptable. In fact, the driving force behind cock fighting is the profit behind it. It also satisfies, for some, their thirst for blood, but gambling is the mainstay of cock fighting.
Cock fighting, to be sure, is outlawed in all 50 states in this country and is punishable as a felony, reflecting American society's intolerance of animal mistreatment. It is illegal to possess, raise, train, trade or advertise fighting roosters. The legal system, society as a whole and moral imperative requires that cock fighting be categorically prohibited. It is also the case that law enforcement has established a clear connection between the illegal drug underworld and cock fighting. Cock fighting activities occupy the dark crevices of society.
As is to be expected, certain niches within the Internet serve as forums for cock fighting aficionados where, similar to the legitimate sporting world, they exchange ideas, stories and facts about their pastime. The betting aspect is also carried out via the Internet for larger operations. Make no mistake - cock fighting is a big, albeit underground, industry, with certain stereotypes predominating as participants. Despite the stereotypes, there is also diversity among the players, including affluent business people, elected officials, and the like.
Most cock fighting takes place in highly-controlled environments where strangers are not allowed. Typically, the fights are staged in remote, rural barns where law enforcement is not likely to be present and there is an absence of disagreeable neighbors who would call authorities to report the crime. Cock fighting is prevalent (and legal) in other parts of the world - in places like Afghanistan and Mexico, where it is allowed as a culturally-sanctioned, legal activity.
Cock fighting has no place in our area and, accordingly, the police and the county's animal services department will investigate and take enforcement action against persons and groups engaging in any prohibited aspect of the cockfighting milieu. If, as a citizen, you become aware of this illegal activity, we ask that you promptly notify the appropriate law enforcement agency.
