MAYS LANDING, NJ—Jose Madera, a 33-year-old resident of Egg Harbor City, pleaded guilty on Tuesday to charges related to operating a cockfighting ring from his property in Galloway Township.
The charges include several counts of animal cruelty, involving the maiming and mutilation of roosters and neglect of dogs, as well as possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and resisting arrest.
The plea agreement stipulates five years of probation, conditioned upon serving 364 days in the Atlantic County Justice Facility. Madera is also required to perform 30 days of community service, preferably at an animal shelter, and forfeit all seized money and property. Additionally, he is barred from acquiring or living with any animals and must pay restitution.
The case unfolded on March 9, when the Galloway Township Police Department’s Humane Law Enforcement Officer Unit executed a search warrant on Madera’s property, leading to the discovery of a large-scale cockfighting operation and the arrest of 51 individuals.
Police also seized over $37,000 and relocated about 50 roosters found in poor health conditions. Four dogs were seized; one required emergency surgery due to pre-existing conditions.
Madera is set for sentencing on October 29. The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, represented by Assistant Prosecutor Lynn Heyer, acknowledges the collaborative effort in the investigation and encourages public reporting of animal cruelty.
