3 arrested in Tucson area rooster fights

An investigation has led Pima County authorities to three people accused of running separate cockfighting rings.

Pima County Sheriff's Department spokesman Deputy Jeffrey Donovan says the first arrest was Aug. 29, when deputies went to a home on an unrelated matter.

Deputies noticed roosters that had been altered for cockfighting.

A search warrant was obtained and investigators found 46 birds, 29 roosters and 17 hens, which were signed over to the Pima Animal Care Center.

Donovan says 43-year-old Jesus Contreras was arrested on charges of cockfighting and possession of drug paraphernalia.

A second bust Friday led authorities to the discovery of numerous rooster cages and roosters.

Deputies arrested 61-year-old Manuel Estrada and his wife, 60-year-old Maria Estrada.

Some 75 birds including 49 roosters and 26 hens were removed.

Donovan says the Estradas were charged with cockfighting.