BOAZ, Ala. (WAAY) -- More than 20 people were arrested and tens of thousands of dollars worth of evidence was seized as a major cockfighting operation was busted in Marshall County.

Investigators said they're still stunned by the sheer size of the raid, as 21 people were locked up after a cockfighting tournament this weekend. The event was part of a ring that could span across multiple states, with a lot of other criminal activity involved.

"This is my 29th year in law enforcment," said Marshall County Sheriff Scott Walls. "We've had a lot of big things over the years, but this was unbelievable.
 
While raiding a residence outside Boaz Saturday night, Marshall County authorities found a homemade cockfighting ring complete with bleachers and even concession stands.

Roughly 350 people were in attendance, with some coming from as far away as Texas and Louisiana.  Investigators said they are still looking for several more suspects.

"This is an organized thing with many major crimes going on on the fringes of it," Walls said.

Walls said there were indications of prostitution, alcohol sales, and possession of narcotics at the scene.

Blades, spurs, and even steroids for roosters could be seen amongst the evidence from the home. Some of the roosters were already dead, and the survivors will have to be destroyed.

Reporter: Nick Banaszak
Web Editor: Dana Franks

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