Massachusetts Man Sentenced for Cockfighting Role
Jose Rivera, 70, received probation and fines for his role in a 2022 cockfighting operation.
2 reports on this incident · first at Aug 27, 2026, 3:55 p.m. ET
Earlier reports
Aug 27, 2026, 3:55 p.m. ETFirst report
Massachusetts Man Sentenced for Role in 2022 Cockfighting Operation
A Massachusetts man was sentenced on August 27, 2026, in federal court in Rhode Island for his role in a 2022 cockfighting operation, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Jose Rivera, 70, was sentenced to two years of probation, a $200 fine, and a $100 special assessment. He previously pleaded guilty on April 13 to violating the Animal Welfare Act.
As part of his plea, Rivera admitted that he traveled from Massachusetts to Rhode Island to participate in cockfights and brought gaffs or other sharp instruments designed to be attached to a rooster's leg for fighting. He also admitted he was aware the cockfights were for sport, wagering, and entertainment.
The announcement was made by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Energy and Natural Resources Division and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles C. Calenda for the District of Rhode Island. The case was investigated by multiple agencies, including the USDA's Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
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Sources
- Massachusetts Man Sentenced for Cockfightingjustice.gov
- Man who pleaded guilty to killing three cats dies before sentencingwinnipegfreepress.com
Revision history
- Version 24 Sept 2026, 07:52current
Updated to reflect the sentencing of Jose Rivera; no changes from previous version.
- Version 127 Aug 2026, 19:55current
First published.
- Version 130 Aug 2026, 01:41
First published.
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