Pound Man Pleads Guilty to Cockfighting and Drug Charges

ABINGDON, VIRGINIA – A Wise County man has been found guilty of participating in a brutal and illegal sport, cockfighting. Russell D. Peaks, 40, pleaded guilty to three felony charges earlier this week, including allowing a minor to attend a cockfight, distribution of hydrocodone, and conspiring to facilitate cockfighting.

The crimes took place at the Big Blue Sportsmen’s Club “Big Blue” in McDowell, Kentucky. According to evidence presented at previous hearings, Peaks raised fighting roosters at his home and took them to fight at Big Blue. On one such occasion, he allowed a minor to attend the fight.

Congress made it a felony to allow a minor to attend an animal fighting venture in 2014. Peaks also sold hydrocodone to an undercover officer. The Big Blue club was a hub for cockfighting, with five individuals previously convicted and sentenced to terms of imprisonment ranging from 6 to 18 months.

Peaks’ sentencing has been scheduled for January 30, 2016, in Abingdon. Assistant United States Attorney Randy Ramseyer and Special Assistant United States Attorney/Virginia Assistant Attorney General Michelle Welch are prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States.

The case is being investigated by the United States Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, the Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Bureau of Law Enforcement, and the Spotsylvania County Sheriff’s Office. Other agencies assisted in the arrests or related proceedings, including the Virginia Animal Fighting Task Force and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Peaks’ actions are a stark reminder that cockfighting is a brutal and barbaric act that is also illegal in the United States. The investigation and prosecution of those involved in this case demonstrate the commitment of law enforcement agencies to protecting animals and holding perpetrators accountable.

Defendant: Russell D. Peaks

Criminal Charges: Allowing a minor to attend a cockfight, distribution of hydrocodone, and conspiring to facilitate cockfighting

City and State: Abingdon, Virginia

Exact Date: 2014 (felony to allow minor to attend animal fighting), January 30, 2016 (sentencing)

Sentence or Outcome: Sentencing scheduled for January 30, 2016

Other Facts: Peaks raised fighting roosters at his home and sold hydrocodone to an undercover officer

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