EXCLUSIVE | Cockfighting ring discovered on East Side

YOUNGSTOWN — Authorities are investigating a cockfighting ring on the East Side after U.S. Marshals discovered live and dead chickens inside a Myron Street home at about 10:30 a.m. Tuesday.

The Marshals were there serving an arrest warrant.

The man Marshals sought was not there, but officers found the birds in pens in the basement.

The Vindicator was the only media on the scene when several of the birds inside were found dead. Some birds that were discovered dead outside were frozen solid.

Humane agents and Dave Nelson of the Mahoning County Dog Warden’s office said the birds died as a result of injuries caused by fighting.

Also inside were supplies to care for the birds, as well as for any wounds they may have received. There were also ledgers inside detailing fighting activity, Nelson said.

Animal Charity took possession of the live chickens.

The Vindicator agreed to withhold reporting details Tuesday to allow officials to continue their investigation.

In Thursday's newspaper and on Vindy.com, The Vindicator will reveal graphic descriptions and images of the violent lives led by the animals used for sport.