News Summary
Onill Vazquez Lozada, 39, from Providence, has pleaded guilty in federal court to violating the Animal Welfare Act by participating in cockfighting activities. He faces serious penalties for owning and exhibiting fighting roosters. The case highlights ongoing federal efforts to combat animal cruelty in Rhode Island, with Lozada being one of several indicted for their involvement in illegal cockfighting operations. Cockfighting, defined as a violent contest between roosters, raises significant animal welfare concerns as it often results in severe injury or death for the birds involved.
Providence Man Pleads Guilty to Cockfighting Charges in Federal Court
Providence, R.I. – Onill Vazquez Lozada, 39, has pleaded guilty in federal court to violating the Animal Welfare Act by engaging in cockfighting activities. The plea, submitted on Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Providence, includes two counts related to owning, sponsoring, and exhibiting birds for fighting purposes.
Lozada was found to have possessed roosters intended for fighting on April 27, 2021, and further sponsored a cockfight that occurred on March 6, 2022, where at least one rooster was exhibited against another. Cockfighting—a practice that involves tying knives or other sharp instruments to the legs of roosters, leading them into brutal fights—has severe animal welfare implications. Such fights typically conclude with the death or incapacitation of one or more birds.
If convicted, Lozada faces a maximum penalty of up to five years in federal prison and a potential fine of $250,000 for each count. Sentencing is set for July 29, where a judge will examine a sentencing report before making a final decision.
Background on Cockfighting
Cockfighting is defined as a violent contest where roosters are pitted against each other with weapons affixed to their legs. These fights are not only barbaric but result in significant suffering and often death for the animals involved. In many instances, fights end when a rooster is unable to continue or dies from its injuries.
Lozada is one of six men recently indicted by a federal grand jury in relation to distinct cockfighting activities within Providence. The charges against them stem from a broader investigation aimed at curtailing illegal animal fighting operations throughout Rhode Island. Notably, fellow co-defendant Miguel Delgado, 73, has been accused of organizing a series of cockfights that took place at his residence on February 25 and March 6, 2022.
Importance of the Investigation
The ongoing investigation into cockfighting in Rhode Island illustrates a concerted effort by federal authorities to address animal cruelty and uphold the provisions of the Animal Welfare Act. By targeting individuals and networks involved in these illegal activities, law enforcement aims to reduce the occurrence of such inhumane practices and protect the welfare of animals.
The case against Lozada and others like him highlights the serious ramifications of animal fighting ventures and the legal consequences that come with them. The government’s commitment to enforcing animal welfare laws serves as a warning to those who may consider participating in similar activities. In summary, the indictment and guilty pleas serve as a reminder of the need to safeguard animal rights and promote humane treatment across all states.
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Additional Resources
- Boston Globe: RI Man Pleads Guilty to Cockfighting
- Wikipedia: Cockfighting
- ABC6: Providence Man Pleads Guilty to Cockfighting Charges
- Google Search: Cockfighting Animal Welfare
- Turn to 10: Providence Man Pleads Guilty to Cockfighting Charges
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Animal Rights
- Patch: Providence Man Pleads Guilty in Cockfighting Ring
- Google News: Cockfighting Rhode Island
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
