Officers bust local cockfight activity

A set of roosters, along with several marijuana plants, were seized by the Madera County Sheriff’s Office, and Madera County Animal Control, in a recent arrest.

According to a press release by Madera County Sheriff’s Cmdr. Bill Ward, detectives were dispatched to a residence in the 14000 block of Road 28 1/2 to serve a search warrant in an investigation on cockfighting activities.

Detectives, Ward said, found that roosters were being raised in the residence for the purpose of cockfighting.

In total, 21 roosters were seized by Madera County Animal Control, who assisted in the investigation. Detectives also reportedly seized several marijuana plants, and a set of brass knuckles.

Jovani Hernandez, 28, of Madera, was arrested for marijuana cultivation, possession of game cocks for fighting, and possession of brass knuckles.

Ward also said a woman who lives at the residence also will have charges filed against her. “This is another case where marijuana production is connected with other crimes that threaten the safety of our communities,” Madera County Sheriff Jay Varney said.