Charges Filed After Cockfighting Ring Raid

Animal cruelty charges have been filed against a North Philadelphia man after a raid discovered a cockfighting ring in his basement.

Officials from the Pennsylvania SPCA say they were tipped off months ago about the possibility of a ring operating at the home located along the 2200 block of Oakley Street.

They finally obtained a search warrant late Wednesday and raided the home confiscating 25 roosters, two adult pit bulls and a puppy. Thirteen of the roosters were dressed for fighting, which means their feathers had been removed.

PSPCA officials also found cockfighting paraphernalia including scales, blades and videotapes of actual fights.

Neighbors say they had no idea cockfighting was going on next door.

The renter, a native of Puerto Rico -- a territory where cockfighting is legal, now faces felony charges.

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