Santa Catarina court upholds fine for illegal bird fighting ring

The Court of Justice of Santa Catarina (TJSC) has upheld a R$ 71,000 fine imposed on a man following an environmental inspection in Porto Belo. During the operation, which was triggered by reports of bird fighting, authorities discovered 87 wild birds kept in a residence.

Police identified equipment used for illegal bird fighting, including cages for disputes, confinement boxes, precision scales, and transport cases. Seventeen individuals present at the property were cited for their alleged involvement in the environmental infraction. The defense attempted to annul the fine and the administrative infraction, arguing a lack of evidence regarding the defendant's participation, but the court denied the request.