BLOUNT COUNTY, Ala. (WDNews) – A federal task force dismantled a large-scale illegal cockfighting operation in Blount County on June 14, arresting 60 individuals and seizing more than $100,000 in cash.
The joint investigation involved U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the USDA Office of Inspector General, and several other federal partners. The raid was part of a broader crackdown under Operation Take Back America, a national initiative targeting illegal immigration, organized crime, and violent offenders.
Of those arrested, 55 were identified as illegal aliens and five were U.S. citizens. Authorities also recovered two firearms and initiated five federal indictments against U.S. citizens believed to be the organizers of the criminal operation. Four individuals face charges for illegal reentry after deportation.
Officials say the cockfighting operation was linked to illegal gambling, drug trafficking, and violent crimes.
“This illegal cockfighting operation wasn’t just about animal cruelty — it was tied to a broader network of serious crimes,” said Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Georgia and Alabama. “HSI remains steadfast in its mission to disrupt and dismantle these enterprises.”
The case is being prosecuted in the Northern District of Alabama.
