Oh yeah and deep down we all know that its not the animals being hurt that gets too you. Its all that untaxed money thats got you all worked.
Cracking Down on Cockfighting
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U.S. Rep. Earl Blumenauer of Oregon sponsored the House version of the act, frustrated that prosecutors were unwilling to pay attention to a crime punishable only as a misdemeanor.
"In the Northwest they're finding piles of cash, pounds of drugs, evidence of illegal gambling and gang activity, but it was something they wouldn't touch," Blumenauer tells NEWSWEEK. "There's an amazing number of people in denial, people willing to apologize for and protect this shadow enterprise."
Blumenauer credits the Vick case with drawing attention to animal fighting, along with growing concerns about avian flu and other communicable diseases.
"You're transporting these chickens all over the country, exposing them to potential infection," Blumenauer says. "The likelihood of infecting the poultry supply skyrockets."
The defendants in the Northwest face up to 18 years in prison and $1 million in fines, plus the forfeiture of any property involved in cockfighting. Those also indicted on drug charges could face life in prison. Blumenauer and others say they hope authorities' renewed interest in busting cockers will be sustained, and that participants in the practice will be discouraged from keeping up the habit, now that the chickens have come home to roost.
© 2008
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