Deputies uncover cockfighting operation while serving unrelated warrant
Williams Diaz faces 31 counts of fighting, baiting animals
Deputies serving a warrant at an Orange County home last week said they uncovered evidence that led to the removal of 54 birds and the arrest of a Orlando man Tuesday.
The sheriff's office said William Diaz, 63, faces 31 counts of fighting and baiting animals in connection with a cockfighting operation.
An investigation was launched last week, authorities said, when deputies were serving an unrelated warrant at Diaz’s home and found cockfighting materials.
Officers obtained a second warrant and returned to the home Tuesday.
Fifty-four birds, a fighting ring, fighting paraphernalia, boxing gloves and needles likely used to feed the birds supplements were seized during the search Tuesday, according to the sheriff’s office.
Diaz also faces three counts of possession of a firearm.
In 2010, Diaz was arrested and charged with 49 counts of animal cruelty.