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Deputies Bust 2 Cockfighting Rings In Polk County

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TBO.com

Published: January 18, 2009

Thirty-seven people were arrested and 109 roosters seized Saturday after Polk County sheriff's deputies received an anonymous tip and broke up a Mulberry cockfighting ring.

Deputies went to 1705 State Road 37 in Mulberry about 5 p.m. Saturday and saw dozens of cars parked around the area, Polk County sheriff's spokeswoman Carrie Eleazer said in a written statement.

Deputies heard several men talking about fighting roosters, Eleazer said.

Among those arrested was Andres Saura, 44, whose address is listed as the property at 1705 S.R. 37. Saura was charged with one count of fighting and baiting animals and 23 counts of possession of fighting and baiting equipment.

The 36 other people were booked on a variety of charges including being in attendance where animals were used in fighting or baiting; resisting arrest without violence, battery on a law enforcement officer and possession of fighting and baiting equipment.

Several of those arrested tried to run from the scene, Eleazer said. Two men punched two deputies and two other men had to be subdued by Tasers, Eleazer said.

About $30,000 in cash was seized, along with a loaded .38-caliber handgun and a .22-caliber rifle. The 109 roosters were seized by Polk County Animal Control.

Also on Saturday, deputies arrested Jorge Hernandez-Martinez, 26, after a narcotics investigation at a Haines City home uncovered a cockfighting ring. Hernandez-Martinez surrendered 18 birds to animal control, and he was charged with possession of cannabis with intent to sell, possession of drug paraphernalia, fighting or baiting animals and 18 counts of possession of paraphernalia used to fight animals.

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