Council considers tougher cockfight laws

By Robbie Dingeman
Advertiser City Hall Writer

Honolulu residents found guilty of cockfighting would be subject to bigger fines but shorter jail terms under a proposal by City Councilman John Henry Felix.

Felix said yesterday he is working to update the city's cockfighting law to help provide police and prosecutors with more effective tools to battle the practice.

The punishment for cockfighting is a fine of up to $100 and/or a jail term of up to three months. Under the proposed ordinance, those found guilty would face a fine of up to $500 but jail time of only 30 days.

"You have to hurt them in their pocketbooks to get their attention," said Felix, who represents Hawai'i Kai, Waimanalo and parts of Kailua.

Because of the possible three-month jail term, anyone charged with cockfighting can request a jury trial, which slows the process and clogs the judicial calendar, Felix said.

Cockfighting has deep roots in the Islands with historians tracing it to ancient Hawai'i where it was enjoyed by ali'i and included gambling even then. Other cultures also have kept it popular in more recent times. Animal advocates deplore the bloody fights.

Deputy City Prosecutor Lori Nishimura said cockfighting cases are referred to her office nearly every week, and the Honolulu city prosecutor's office recommended changing the law.