PD: Two charged after 140 birds seized for cockfighting

SUGARLOAF TWP., LUZERNE COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — Two have been charged after police say 140 birds were seized during an investigation into cockfighting.

In April 28/22 News reported 140 birds were seized from a home in Sugarloaf Township during an investigation into breeding and fighting of roosters.

At the beginning of March, the Luzerne County SPCA visited the home and revealed that numerous roosters with evidence that they were used for fighting, a lack of food or water, and other items consistent with activity related to cockfighting.

During that investigation, District Attorney Sam Sanguedolce said two people, Reynaldo DeJesus Castillo, 62, and Annies Martires Castillo, 69, were detained for questioning.

Court documents have revealed Reynaldo and Annies have been charged with 61 counts of animal fighting, 81 counts of animal fighting paraphernalia, 136 counts of neglect of animals of the substance of water, 136 counts of neglect of animal shelter, and 1 count of neglect in vet care.

As of Tuesday, August 13, the two suspects have not been arrested.

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