Three Wisconsin men were charged Wednesday in connection with running a cockfighting ring in that state after raids on Tuesday seized nearly 1,200 birds, many of which were badly injured, and other fighting paraphernalia.
Ernesto B. Benitez, 48, of Amery; Idelio J. Benitez, 57, of Amery; and Agustin A. Benitez, 56, of Turtle Lake, each were charged with 10 felony counts of instigating fights between animals as a trainer and 10 misdemeanor counts of violating bail conditions in Polk County Circuit Court.
All three are scheduled for a preliminary hearing June 9.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) assisted the Polk County Sheriff's Department and St. Croix County Sheriff's Office in Tuesday's raids on four properties — three in Polk County and one in St. Croix County.
In addition to a fighting pit, authorities found dagger-like "gaffs" that are typically attached to the fighting birds' feet to maximize injuries, as well as hundreds of roosters living in makeshift conditions. Some had no food or water and had injuries consistent with fighting.
Veterinarians are working at the sites with a mobile hospital to assess the number of birds that have been harmed, police said. Agencies are assisting the investigation to determine if those birds are also at risk for avian flu.
In Wisconsin, conducting a cockfight and possessing birds for fighting are Class I felonies, punishable by up to 3½ years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. Being a spectator at a cockfight is a misdemeanor offense, according to the ASPCA.
Staff writer James Walsh contributed to this report.
