by Commerce City, Colorado — Detectives in a Denver-area city have seized 77 roosters and hens from a residential property after uncovering evidence that the birds were allegedly being trained for cockfighting, a practice that is illegal in the United States.
The seizure took place Thursday at a home in the 5900 block of East 69th Avenue, according to the Commerce City Police Department, following the execution of a court-approved search warrant.
Birds showed signs of disease and hormone use
Police said the birds — a mix of roosters and hens — were found primarily kept outdoors in cages. After veterinary and agricultural assessments, officials determined the animals showed signs of infectious disease and exposure to growth hormones.
Because of these health concerns, authorities said the birds will have to be humanely euthanized, citing risks to other animals and public health.
Officials emphasized that the decision was not made lightly but was necessary under animal welfare and disease-control protocols.
Investigation tied to earlier arrest
The seizure stems from an arrest made last month, when police took Arnulfo Talavera-Martinez, 45, into custody on animal fighting charges.
According to investigators, Talavera-Martinez became a suspect after law enforcement intercepted a package either addressed to him or sent by him that contained metal blades designed to be attached to a rooster’s talons. These blades, commonly referred to as gaffs, are used in cockfighting to increase injury and lethality during fights.
Suspect allegedly admitted birds were being prepared
Police said Talavera-Martinez allegedly admitted to preparing the birds for cockfighting. Investigators also claim he told authorities that a relative planned to transport the birds to Mexico, where they would allegedly be used in organized fights.
While cockfighting is banned nationwide in the U.S. and classified as a felony in many states, police noted that laws differ by region in Mexico, where the practice is not uniformly prohibited.
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More charges possible
Talavera-Martinez currently faces felony animal fighting charges, Commerce City police confirmed. Investigators said additional charges may be filed following Thursday’s seizure, depending on the outcome of the ongoing investigation and forensic findings related to the animals’ condition.
Police have not released information on whether anyone else may be charged in connection with the case.
Multi-agency effort
The investigation involved assistance from the Colorado Department of Agriculture and Colorado State University, which helped assess the birds’ health and determine the appropriate course of action.
Authorities said collaboration between law enforcement and agricultural experts is critical in cases involving animal fighting, as such operations often raise concerns about disease spread, illegal breeding, and animal cruelty.
Cockfighting remains a serious offense
Law enforcement officials reiterated that cockfighting is considered animal cruelty and often linked to other criminal activity, including illegal gambling and drug offenses.
Police urged residents to report suspected animal fighting or abuse, noting that early intervention can prevent suffering and reduce broader public health risks.
Community impact and next steps
Commerce City police said they will continue working with prosecutors to ensure accountability in the case and prevent similar operations from resurfacing.
Officials also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and contact authorities if they notice suspicious activity involving animals kept in poor conditions or trained for violence.
As the investigation continues, police say the seizure sends a clear message that animal fighting will not be tolerated and that those involved may face serious legal consequences.
What more should be done to prevent animal fighting operations from taking root in local communities? Share your thoughts in the comments.
