Suffolk SPCA: Bay Shore Man Arrested For Possession Of Fighting Birds

LongIsland.com

Reynaldo Bonilla, 40, was in possession of over 60 fighting roosters, fighting paraphernalia, a fighting ring, a neglected female pit bull, and drugs, police report.

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Suffolk SPCA arrested Reynaldo Bonilla of Bay Shore, 40, for owning and training fighting roosters.

Photo by: Suffolk County SPCA

Bay Shore, NY - February 12, 2018 - Suffolk County SPCA detectives arrested a Bay Shore man on February 9, 2018 for owning and training roosters for the purpose of fighting and neglect of a female pit bull, living in deplorable conditions, with an untreated injury, following execution of a search warrant with Suffolk County Police Third Precinct Officers.
 
The joint investigation resulted in the charges being filed by both agencies. Also assisting were New York State Environmental Conservation Police who also brought charges for illegal possession of wildlife without a permit, Town of Islip Animal Control, Third Precinct Gang Section, Third Precinct Community Support Unit (CSU) and Emergency Services Section and Canine Section.
 
Reynaldo Bonilla, 40, was charged with possession of fighting birds and implements and animal cruelty by the Suffolk County S.P.C.A.  
 
Suffolk County Third Squad detectives charged Bonilla with drug possession.
 
During the search, over 60 fighting roosters that showed evidence of being trained for fighting as well as fighting paraphernalia were seized by the Suffolk County SPCA. A fighting ring was also seized.
 
"Cockfighting is a cruel, barbaric practice that leads to other crimes. This successful investigation will help disrupt illegal bird fighting in Suffolk County and surrounding areas," said Chief Roy Gross.
 
Bonilla was arraigned in First District Court in Islip on February 10, 2018.
 
If convicted, Bonilla will be required by law to register with the Suffolk County Animal Abuse Registry. Each person registered in the registry shall remain on the Animal Abuse Registry for five years following his release and must notify of any change of residence.
 
Chief Gross said that animal cruelty will not be tolerated in Suffolk County. If you witness any incident of animal cruelty or neglect in Suffolk County please contact the Suffolk County SPCA at (631) 382-7722. All calls will be kept confidential.
 
A criminal charge is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.