Egg Harbor City Man Detained in Cockfighting Case

MAYS LANDING, NJ – On Tuesday, March 19, 2024, Jose Madera, 33, from Egg Harbor City, was detained pending trial by a Superior Court Judge on numerous animal cruelty offenses, possession of a controlled dangerous substance, destruction of evidence and resisting arrest.

On Saturday, March 9, 2024, the Galloway Township Police Department HLEO (Humane Law Enforcement Officer) Unit executed a search warrant on the 300 block of S. Bremen Avenue in reference to the ongoing investigation of a large cockfighting ring. Upon entering the property, police encountered a large group of individuals, many of whom attempted to flee the residence upon law enforcement’s arrival. Numerous suspects were detained, and police conducted a search of the property.

During the search, police located an elaborate cockfighting operation that included a constructed cockfighting ring, spectator style seating, and numerous cockfighting “kits”. Approximately 50 roosters, all displaying various degrees of health, were located in crates, storage boxes, and bags in and around the cockfighting arena.

As a result of the search warrant execution, police arrested 51 individuals and seized over $37,000.00 in cash. After consulting with NJ Department of Agriculture, the roosters recovered during the search warrant were relocated. Four canines, three of which were living in inhumane conditions in an outdoor shed, were also seized from the property and turned over to animal control.

Madera was the homeowner and arrested on scene.

*** These charges are merely an accusation and not proof of guilt.? In all criminal cases, a charged defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. ***

The Galloway Township Police Department would like to thank the Atlantic County SWAT Team, the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office, the Egg Harbor City Police Department, the Hamilton Township Police Department, and Galloway Township Emergency Medical Services for their assistance with this investigation.

The Galloway Township Police Department remains committed to investigating all crimes including claims of animal cruelty. Anyone wishing to report a crime tip can do so by contacting the Galloway Township Police Department at 609-652-3705 or go to the Prosecutor’s Office’s Website at ACPO.Tips and provide information by filling out the form anonymously on the Submit a Tip page.

People can also call Crime Stoppers at 609-652-1234 or 1-800-658-8477 (TIPS) or visit the Crime Stoppers Website at https://www.crimestoppersatlantic.com/.? Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards for information leading to the arrest and indictment of those who commit crimes in Atlantic County.