60 arrested in cockfighting ring in Blount County; Firearms, over $100K seized

BLOUNT COUNTY, Ala. (WBRC) - Authorities targeted an illegal cockfighting exhibition in Blount County Saturday, June 14.

Several agencies executed search warrants related to the prohibition of animal fighting ventures, presence of illegal immigrants, and the prohibition of illegal gambling.

Homeland Security says a total of 60 people were arrested, including 55 illegal immigrants, and five US citizens who have pending charges.

Four of the illegal immigrants are charged with illegal reentry after they were deported.

Authorities say they seized more than $100,000 in cash and two firearms.

“This illegal cockfighting operation wasn’t just about animal cruelty — it was tied to a broader network of serious crimes, including illegal gambling, drug trafficking, and violent offenses,” said Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama Steven N. Schrank. “These criminal enterprises endanger our communities, and HSI remains steadfast in its mission to disrupt and dismantle them. This operation underscores our commitment to public safety and the strength of our law enforcement partnerships.”

The Gulf of America Homeland Security Task Force, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, conducted the joint operation.

The case will be prosecuted in the Northern District of Alabama.

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