Miami-Dade cockfighting ring bust leads to three arrests and 3,100 bird euthanizations

Federal authorities and local animal services have dismantled a large-scale illegal cockfighting operation in southwest Miami-Dade County. Following an FBI raid on a 10-acre property in the Horse Country area, officials discovered a training facility containing over 3,100 roosters, along with various supplies used for fighting, such as spurs, syringes, and medications.

On October 9, the Miami-Dade Animal Services Department euthanized more than 3,100 roosters, marking the largest animal euthanasia operation of its kind in the county's history. While the fighting birds were killed, other animals found in states of neglect—including dogs, cats, goats, turtles, ponies, and a lamb—were rescued by the Florida SPCA and placed in medical care.

Three individuals have been arrested in connection with the investigation. Marcie Rochell Newmark was recently detained, joining Carlos Rafael Lezcano and Sergio Ruiz-Osorio. Lezcano faces multiple charges, including animal cruelty with intent to injure or kill, evidence tampering, and possession and training of animals for fighting.