243 chickens seized as Stafford County men charged in felony animal fighting case
Stafford, VA – What began as a barking dog complaint quickly escalated into a felony animal fighting investigation after deputies in Stafford County discovered evidence of cockfighting and seized over 200 chickens from a residential property.
On December 9 at approximately 9:58 a.m., Animal Control Deputy A.M. Harrah and Sergeant A.J. McCall responded to a home in Stafford County. During the visit, deputies confirmed the presence of chickens and were led to the area by one of the residents. While inspecting the property, deputies observed several items in plain view consistent with illegal cockfighting operations.
The scene was immediately secured, and a search warrant was obtained. Following a full search of the property, 243 chickens were taken into custody as part of the investigation.
Authorities identified two men responsible for the chickens: Juan Juarez, 57, and Juan Carlos Juarez Ayala, 34, both of Stafford. On December 18, both men were formally served with ten counts each of felony animal fighting and held on a secure bond.
No booking photographs were released at the time of the announcement. The case remains under active investigation by the Stafford County Sheriff’s Office.
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Key Points
- 243 chickens seized in Stafford County following cockfighting investigation
- Juan Juarez, 57, and Juan Carlos Juarez Ayala, 34, each face 10 felony charges
- Investigation began with barking dog complaint that led to search warrant
