Almost 100 People Will Be Arrested in Massive Cockfighting Gambling Operation; 54 Birds Involved, 4 Deceased

Recently State Police Organized Crime Detectives developed information regarding an illegal gambling --cockfighting operation was taking place in East Windsor.

State Police Detectives assigned to SOCTIF (Organized Crime Task Force) initiated a criminal investigation into the information.

This extensive criminal investigation provided investigators with facts, information, and leads that caused State Police Detectives to apply to Enfield Superior Court for a search and seizure warrant for a location --248 South Main St in East Windsor. The search warrant was issued by the court.

On 02/21/15 in the late evening hours State Police Detectives & Troopers who were assisted by the State Police Tactical Team, State Dept. of Corrections, Agriculture and Officers from the East Windsor PD executed the search & seizure warrant.

Upon entry the law enforcement raid team located 108 people at the cockfighting site. Troopers found 54 fighting birds --49 live birds and 4 deceased birds. A large amount of gambling proceeds -cash was seized (over $100,000) at the site. Troopers also seized a firearm, records, and implements of cockfighting during the search.

All occupants were detained and identified. 40 subjects were placed under arrest on site and charged with 54 counts animal cruelty and one count Professional Gambling. They were processed and released on bond to appear in Enfield Superior Court. Troopers identified the remainder of the subjects at the site. Arrest warrants will be sought for the arrests of the rest of the 58 people found on site.

Agents from the department of Agriculture agents took custody of the birds.

This criminal investigation remains open and active. It is anticipated that State Police Detectives will make the additional arrests in this case as the investigation continues.

Pictured: The business on South Main Street where the warrant was executed and the processing by East Windsor Police. Photos courtesy of the East Windsor Police Department.