Overview
- Joliet police expanded a targeted drug investigation at a Meeker Avenue home after they saw many caged roosters and signs of animal fighting.
- A search warrant turned up suspected cocaine, cash, and 29 animals, including roosters, hens, chicks and a terrier puppy, plus metal spurs, straps, medications and transport boxes linked to cockfighting.
- Rolando (Ronaldo) Rodriguez-Gasca, 39, and Fortino Rodriguez, 51, were arrested and charged with multiple drug and animal-cruelty offenses, and officials said more counts could follow.
- Several roosters showed physical alterations associated with fighting, and Joliet Township Animal Control moved the animals for medical care and placement with rescue groups.
- The Will County Sheriff's Office assisted the case, and the county state's attorney said cruelty to animals often signals broader violence.