22 arrested in cockfighting ring bust at Kensington home; over 100 birds seized

Twenty-two people have been arrested and more than 100 birds have been seized after authorities broke up an alleged cockfighting ring inside a Kensington home on Saturday.

More than 100 roosters and chickens were found inside a home on the 2100 block of East Ann Street. Some were found deceased.

The raid was conducted by Philadelphia police and the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' Humane Law Enforcement team.

Officers reportedly chased down several suspects who tried to flee the scene on foot. Four suspects suffered broken ankles when they tried to climb over a 30-foot wall.

All of the birds seized were transported to the PSPCA's Erie Avenue Headquarters for evaulation. The birds will remain in the PSPCA's care until they are signed over by the offenders or adjudicated by the courts.

Paraphernalia consistent with cockfighting was also recovered from the scene. A bill passed in 2015 makes the possession of these items a misdemeanor crime.

Further details about the ring were not disclosed. It's not clear how long the ring may have been operating at the home.

The suspects charged have been identified below:

All suspects were charged with criminal conspiracy and cruelty to animals.

Anyone with information about this case or who witnesses acts of animal cruelty is encouraged to call the PSPCA's Cruelty Hotline at 866-601-7722. Animal cruelty can also be reported by filling out the PSPCA's online form here.

Those interested in donating to the PSPCA can do so here.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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