Pair arrested for illegal cockfighting ring

FELTON, Del. – Two people have been arrested in connection to an illegal cockfighting ring in Felton.

The investigation began in May when Delaware Animal Services received a report of cockfighting at a farm located in the 3000 block of Sandtown Road.  On arrival, an animal welfare officer found the fight in progress, with approximately 50 people at the scene, including children. Those involved fled the scene and only a few could be identified, including the property owners.

A search warrant was obtained for the property, which revealed that the owners of the farm, 51-year-old Billy Keen and 43-year-old Andrea Keen, were hosting illegal cockfighting events on the property. Both were arrested last week and each charged with one felony count of possessing an animal for the purpose of fighting. Andrea was also charged with one felony count of being present for animal fighting.

Both were released on their own recognizance.

47 ABC News spoke with Delaware Animal Services Captain Philip Dixon who described the cruelty behind the act of cockfighting.

“It’s where they put two roosters, normally roosters, they usually equip them with some sort of blade, some sort of weapon, that are attached to their legs for the fight,” Captain Dixon explained. “Sometimes, it’s a fight to the death, sometimes, it’s a fight until one of them just kind of gives up, taps out, and so to speak.”

Animal fighting is illegal in all 50 states, including Delaware where it’s a felony.

Anyone with information on this case is urged to contact Delaware Animal Services at 302-255-4646.