A 70-year-old woman has become the third individual apprehended in a federal investigation uncovering a suspected large-scale cockfighting operation in southwest Miami-Dade, as reported by Telemundo 51.
The detainee, identified as Marcie Rochell Newmark, joins two men who were arrested earlier in connection with the same case.
Newmark's husband stated that "the case is in the hands of justice" and declined to give an interview to the media, as did the accused herself. The specific charges she faces have not been disclosed by the source.
Discovery of the Cockfighting Operation
The investigation began in early October when FBI agents were inspecting a 10-acre property in an area known as Horse Country, near SW 123rd Avenue and SW 51st Street, for an entirely different matter. During the inspection, they stumbled upon what appeared to be a large-scale illegal animal fighting operation.
The two adjacent properties under investigation are owned by the same individual, with one being rented out. Investigators discovered thousands of roosters, along with spurs, syringes, medications, and other items linked to cockfighting, as well as neglected dogs, cats, goats, turtles, and birds.
The Largest Animal Euthanasia in County History
On October 9, the Miami-Dade Animal Services Department euthanized over 3,100 roosters, which authorities claimed were used for fighting. This operation is the largest of its kind recorded in the county regarding the number of animals involved.
Previous Arrests and Charges
The earlier arrests included Carlos Rafael Lezcano, 52, detained on October 5 after attempting to flee by jumping a fence during the initial raid, and Sergio Ruiz-Osorio, 54, apprehended on October 8 when detectives called the number on the "Los Laureles, Animal Sales" sign displayed on the property.
Lezcano is facing four charges: animal cruelty with intent to injure or kill, evidence tampering, possession and training of animals for fighting, and non-violent resistance to authority. Ruiz-Osorio is charged with possession of animals for fighting and animal cruelty.
Community Reactions and Legal Implications
Residents of the area expressed shock over the findings. Some mentioned they regularly visited the property to purchase farm products, unaware of the alleged activities taking place there.
The three accused must appear in court to address the charges against them as the judicial process continues.
Under Florida Statute 828.122, known as the Animal Fighting Act, cockfighting is a third-degree felony, punishable by up to five years in prison and fines of up to $5,000. The law penalizes activities ranging from breeding or training animals for fights to merely attending as a spectator. Federally, the Animal Welfare Act can impose an additional five years of imprisonment for organizing or actively participating in such events.
This case significantly surpasses previous operations in the area. Last April, two men were arrested in the county's southwest with 500 to 600 roosters, and in May 2025, authorities dismantled a cockfighting ring in Redland, resulting in 42 arrests and nearly $40,000 in cash seized.
Miami-Dade Cockfighting Investigation Details
What led to the discovery of the cockfighting operation in Miami-Dade?
The operation was uncovered by FBI agents who were inspecting a property in Horse Country for an unrelated matter and discovered evidence of illegal animal fighting activities.
How many roosters were euthanized during the investigation?
Over 3,100 roosters were euthanized by the Miami-Dade Animal Services Department as they were reportedly used for fighting.
What charges are the individuals involved in the cockfighting case facing?
The accused are facing charges including animal cruelty with intent to injure or kill, possession and training of animals for fighting, evidence tampering, and non-violent resistance to authority.