ELKO, Nev. (AP) — Three suspects have been arrested in northeast Nevada on drug and animal abuse charges after authorities confiscated nearly 9 pounds (4 kilograms) of methamphetamine, 500 chickens and evidence of cockfighting.
The Elko County sheriff's office says 248 roosters had been abused or treated cruelly at a residence in Osino about 15 miles (24 kilometers) northeast of Elko.
The Elko Daily Free Press reported Thursday three roosters were humanely euthanized on scene.
The defendants face drug-trafficking charges and multiple charges of unlawful killing or maiming of an animal and possession of an animal with intent to have it fight with another animal.
They are 42-year-old Jorge Landeros Ruiz, 34-year-old Hector H. Ramirez-de la Torre and 33-year-old Eduardo Ruiz.
It's not clear if they have lawyers. The county public defender's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday.
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Information from: Elko Daily Free Press, http://www.elkodaily.com
