Lorain County – On July 3, 2025, with assistance from the Lorain County Sheriff’s Department the Friendship Animal Protective League (FAPL) Humane Investigations Department executed two search warrants involving cockfighting operations in Sheffield Township, Ohio.
These warrants mark the fourth time this year that agents have seized roosters related to cockfighting in Lorain County. Cockfighting is an illegal bloodsport in which roosters are placed into a fighting ring, known as a pit, from which they cannot escape.
The roosters’ legs are equipped with razor-sharp blades commonly called a “gaff.” The roosters then fight until one cannot continue, typically because the bird has suffered a lethal wound. One or both birds often die after a cockfight.
On site, agents uncovered fighting pits and cockfighting paraphernalia such as sparring muffs. The 239 birds being used as part of these operations were also being kept in violation of animal welfare laws, including being housed in unsanitary conditions without adequate food and/or water. At one location, the cages housing birds contained several inches of mud and animal waste, caking the birds’ legs to the point that they had difficulty walking.
FAPL is the only county humane society empowered to investigate suspected animal abuse in Lorain County. The Humane Investigations Program is completely funded by donations.
“Cockfighting is a brutal and inhumane act,” FAPL executive director Gregory Willey said. “These birds are subjected to extreme suffering for the sake of ‘entertainment’ and profit. We are committed to exposing these operations and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.”
A probable cause hearing was held on July 16, 2025 to determine where the animals would be housed while the case progresses through the legal system. Pursuant to the Court’s order, the animal owners may post bond to maintain an ownership interest in the animals. In the meantime, due to the finding of probable cause, the animals will remain in the custody of FAPL while criminal charges proceed, regardless of if bond is posted.
Due to this high number of animals coming into the shelter at once, FAPL is in need of donations. Monetary donations and animal care supplies can be donated directly to the shelter or through its website www.friendshipapl.org
