Federal warning issued amid reports of cockfighting in U.S. Virgin Islands

U.S. Attorney for the District of the Virgin Islands Delia L. Smith reminded residents that cockfighting remains illegal under federal law. This prohibition, set out in the Agricultural Improvement Act (PL 115-334) of December 20, 2019extends to all U.S. territories, including the Virgin Islands.

Animal fighting is a crime punishable by up to five years in prison, said U.S. Attorney Smith, who noted that federal law prohibits many activities related to animal fighting. This includes sponsoring, exhibiting or participating in such events, as well as selling, transporting or training animals for fighting purposes. Additionally, the law prohibits the trafficking of knives and gaffs used in cockfighting.

While federal law prohibited the shipment of fighting birds to the Virgin Islands from the U.S. mainland as early as 2002, recent reports indicate that cockfighting continues in the community. U.S. Attorney Smith discussed the potential dangers associated with these activities, which often correlate with other criminal offenses, including violent crimes, firearms violations, and mail fraud.

“Cockfighting is illegal and potentially dangerous. We must therefore continue our commitment to keeping our community safe,” she said.

The United States Attorney’s Office encourages residents to report any information regarding cockfighting or animal fighting-related crimes. Reports can be submitted to the Federal Bureau of Investigation at (787) 754-6000 or to the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Inspector General hotline at (800) 424-9121 or online at USDA OIG Hotline.