Deputies Kill Seized Cockfighting Roosters in Washington

In a controversial decision, deputies in Yakima County, Washington, chose to shoot and kill former cockfighting roosters rather than relocate them to animal sanctuaries. The decision stemmed from concerns that the valuable birds might be moved clandestinely if left on the property, according to local authorities.

In April 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced indictments against 34 individuals involved in a major cockfighting ring in eastern Washington. Charges included cockfighting, money laundering, and attempted witness intimidation. The bust led to the seizure of dozens of roosters from two properties. Initially, it was decided that half of these roosters would be sent to Heartwood Haven, an animal sanctuary in Pierce County, while the rest would be rehomed with adoptive families, other sanctuaries, and facilities.

Kate Tsyrklevich, working with Heartwood Haven, had been preparing to find homes for over 50 roosters. She was awaiting further instructions from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) when she received unexpected news: the roosters had been shot and killed. The birds were on a property in Zillah, Washington, and concerns from a neighbor about horses prompted the involvement of Yakima County deputies and an animal control officer.

The Yakima County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson explained that deputies feared the roosters, valued highly due to their involvement in cockfighting, might be stolen or moved. Body-worn camera footage obtained by KCPQ-TV showed a woman caring for the roosters asking if they would be taken to a sanctuary. Animal Control Officer Cindy Kanzler responded negatively, despite knowing of the relocation plans. The footage captured Kanzler expressing indifference about the birds’ disposal.

Deputies attempted to contact the ATF and the sanctuary, as shown in the body camera footage. However, they soon made a call to the armory for ammunition, with one deputy muting his microphone to explain the situation further. Ultimately, 64 roosters were shot, a highly unusual method of euthanasia in cases of animal cruelty. The Yakima County Sheriff’s Office defended the decision as a difficult but necessary one.

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Related Content:

• Nearly 150 Roosters Euthanized After Police Shut Down Cockfighting Event
• Cockfighting Ring Busted in Pennsylvania Saving Dozens of Animals
• Cockfighting Ring Busted Thanks to Drone Footage
• 97 Roosters Seized From Illegal Cockfighting Ring in Texas

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