August 3, 2025 – Delhi, CA – Merced County Sheriff's Office officials report that on July 25th, 2025, the Merced County Sheriff's Enforcement Team (SET) conducted numerous Marijuana operations in the Winton and Delhi areas, where over 3000 marijuana plants were eradicated and two firearms were located, including one that was reported stolen. On July 29th, 2025, additional follow-up was conducted by Code Enforcement, Environmental Health, and the Buildings Department at one of the locations in the 7700 block of Sycamore Street in Delhi.

During their inspection of the property, they located several animal fighting rings used for organized animal fighting, as well as 15 deceased roosters, which were not on the property when SET was there. Animal Control Officer Rafferty responded to the scene and seized 307 roosters. The roosters appeared to be explicitly raised for fighting, with some having defensive wounds. Several animal cruelty charges related to cockfighting were filed with the District Attorney's Office.

The Merced County Sheriff's Office wants to remind the public that organized animal fighting is not only inhumane but also illegal. Such activities typically involve other criminal misconduct, which can pose a risk to public safety. Additionally, the conditions in which fighting animals are kept are often deplorable, leading to significant animal suffering and distress. Any person organizing, participating in, or promoting any such activities is subject to severe penalties such as felony charges, hefty fines, and imprisonment.

Please contact the Merced County Sheriff's Office if you have any information related to this case or any illegal organized animal fighting operations at (209)385-7445.

Source & photos: Merced County Sheriff's Office