A Salinas man faces cockfighting charges after deputies reportedly discovered 350 birds suspected to be part of an illegal fighting ring.
According to a press release from the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office, after receiving tips of cockfighting on the 600 block of San Juan Grade Road north of Salinas, deputies served a search warrant at the home on Friday, March 22 and found evidence associated with breeding and training of roosters for the illegal fights.
Deputies also discovered 350 roosters, hens and chicks on the property, the press release said, which will be turned over to SPCA Monterey County to be euthanized.
In addition to code enforcement violations, Jose Francisco Gaitan, 73, is being charged with possession of fighting birds, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Cockfighting is a federal crime that is also punishable as a misdemeanor or felony.