In Chaves County, local deputies have launched an investigation into an illegal cockfighting ring following a tip-off that led them to the scene. The investigation has identified three primary suspects, including an alleged business owner involved in organizing events and renting venues.

Investigation Details

Deputies acted on information provided to the Chaves County Sheriff’s Office, which included the address and potential suspects involved in the illegal activities. During the operation, more than 100 individuals were detained, with 20 attempting to flee the scene. All were apprehended and returned to the site for questioning.

Authorities seized several items of evidentiary value, including electronics, ledgers, safes, documentation, laptops, hard drives, roosters, and cockfighting equipment. The investigation has also led to the execution of over 20 search warrants, both digitally and electronically.

Suspects and Legal Proceedings

The primary suspects identified are Sergio Jimenez and Simon Anaya. In addition to the adults involved, more than 30 juveniles were present at the event, prompting a separate investigation into potential child endangerment.

More than $180,000 was confiscated from the location and handed over to federal authorities. The investigation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.