No trend seen in rise in cockfight busts

PHOENIX, Feb. 16 (UPI) -- Animal-protection activists in Phoenix say they don't believe cockfighting is becoming more widespread in the area despite a recent uptick in arrests.

The Arizona Republic reported Monday there have been four major operations against underground cockfighting rings in the Phoenix area since December. While police have increased their vigilance of late, investigators don't believe the blood sport is considered acceptable in immigrant communities.

"There are only a small number of people who support this form of animal cruelty," said John Goodman of the Humane Society of the United States.

The Republic noted cockfighting is legal and popular in some parts of Mexico.