Big Blue Club Owners Pleaded Guilty to Cockfighting Conspiracy

McDOWELL, KY – The Big Blue Sportsman’s Club, a notorious venue for illegal cockfights in McDowell, Kentucky, will meet the wrecker’s ball following guilty pleas from its owners. Shirley Ray Slone, 73, and Vernon Kelly Slone, 69, both residents of McDowell, Kentucky, each took responsibility for one count of conspiracy to cause others to attend a cockfight.

According to Acting United States Attorney Rick A. Mountcastle and Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring, the Slones’ guilty plea marks an end to two decades of illegal activities at the Big Blue Sportsman’s Club, which included not only cockfights but also gambling and animal cruelty. The couple has agreed to forfeit $100,000 and ensure the complete destruction of the 10,000 square-foot facility.

Mountcastle emphasized that today’s convictions represent a victory for law enforcement agencies that have tirelessly worked to shut down this criminal operation. Attorney General Herring highlighted the importance of enforcing animal welfare laws, noting that these activities are often associated with other serious crimes and pose a threat to community safety.

The evidence at previous hearings revealed that the Slones owned the property where the Big Blue Sportsman’s Club operated, a 5,000-member club known for hosting illegal cockfights. The facility was raided in 2014, leading to federal charges of cockfighting, gambling, and narcotics. To date, nine individuals have been convicted for their involvement.

Among those sentenced were Walter Stumbo to 18 months, Joshua Stumbo and Sonya Stumbo to each serve 10 months, Jonathan Robinson to 12 months and one day, and Wesley Robinson to six months. Russell D. Peaks received a 24-month federal prison sentence for allowing a minor at a cockfight, distribution of hydrocodone, and conspiracy.

The Slones’ sentencing is set for June 8, 2017, with each facing up to one year in prison and a fine of $100,000. Assistant United States Attorneys Randy Ramseyer and Michelle Welch are prosecuting the case, which was investigated by various agencies including the USDA Inspector General’s Office, the Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Bureau of Law Enforcement, and the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office.