On October 26, 2025, deputies from the Hesperia Station responded to a report of an unknown problem involving multiple people at a business located on the 17100 block of Darwin Avenue in Hesperia. Upon arrival, several individuals attempted to flee the scene. With assistance from the Sheriff’s Aviation unit and deputies from the Victorville City Station, law enforcement detained 26 people.
Inside the business, deputies discovered an active cock fight in progress. The Rural Crimes Task Force was called to take over the investigation. A search warrant was obtained for both the business and vehicles on site. During their search, investigators found a cock fighting ring, 56 live roosters kept separately, 24 dead roosters, score cards, gaffs (sharp implements used in cock fighting), five firearms, and food catering services.
Investigators also collected about $28,000 in cash as evidence from those detained. Additional gaffs and items related to illegal cock fighting were found inside several vehicles. Hesperia Animal Control assisted with the investigation by responding to the scene. Transportation vans from the High Desert Detention Center helped transport suspects who were booked on felony charges at that facility.
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department noted that while cock fighting is legal in some countries, it is not permitted in the United States. “The Rural Crimes Team takes these investigations very seriously and will investigate them to the fullest and suspects will be arrested,” according to a statement included in their release.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Lucerne Valley Sheriff’s Sub-Station at 760-248-7328 or provide anonymous tips through We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or wetip.com.
Sergeant Joe Necochea of Lucerne Valley is listed as a point of contact for further details about this case.
