Cockfighting Ring Busted

Burson, CA — A total of ten were cited, and three were arrested, when the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Office broke up a cockfighting operation in Burson.

Officials say the cockfighting was taking place in a large shop outside a home in the 14000 block of Hunter Road. When deputies arrived, an estimated 35 to 45 people ran towards the rear exit. 10 people were captured.

25-year-old Randolph Lee Lumactod and 53-year-old Luis Padilla, Jr., both of Burson, were arrested on charges of animal cruelty and cockfighting. 29-year-old David Socrates Valdez of North Highlands was arrested for public intoxication.

Deputies found 18 deceased birds in garbage bags, receipts, a snack bar (which was serving alcohol), fighting cages and other items related to cockfighting. 39 live birds were confiscated and turned over to Animal Services as evidence. An investigation is ongoing.