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The Honolulu Advertiser

Updated at 2:38 p.m., Friday, February 28, 2003

Cockfighting crackdown bill clears Senate panel

By Vicki Viotti
Advertiser Staff Writer

A state Senate committee today voted to pass a bill to toughen penalties against cockfighting after a strong showing by proponents at today's public hearing, where those who support this form of gambling also registered their defense of an activity favored by some ethnic communities.

The measure, known as S.B. 1581, would create a new category of class-C felony crimes called "aggravated cruelty to animals," and includes cockfighting in that category. Among other provisions is a section that would define sites of cockfighting and dog fighting events as nuisances subject to violation citations.

The most extensive testimony in support of the bill, heard by the Senate Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs, came from various humane societies around the state and included a petition of 750 names gathered by the Hawaiian Humane Society.

Pam Burns, the society's president, also submitted articles on research indicating a link between animal cruelty of all kinds and violence against humans. On cockfighting specifically, Burns called it "simply an extremely cruel form of gambling."

"When a person abuses an animal, all society is at risk," she added.

Pam Smith, a former 'Ewa Neighborhood Board member, said cockfighting has disrupted her community with traffic and drug activity.

"The killing of even one more bird for fun and profit is inexcusable," she said.

Annette Lee, speaking for The Hawaii Game Breeders Association questioned criminalizing cockfighting when destruction of animals by the humane societies is legal.

"We do need to get our priorities in order when it comes to increasing felony crimes," Lee said.

Reach Vicki Viotti at vviotti@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8053.