A cock is the male of any type of domestic fowl, and cockfighting is a blood sport in which two (or more) cocks are placed in a ring or confined area and encouraged to attack or fight each other. Cockfighting is illegal in all 50 states and the District of Columbia—but remains legal in Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Although cockfighting is illegal in all states, the potential punishment for the crime varies from state to state. In thirteen states, a first offense charge of cockfighting is a misdemeanor—including Alabama, California, Hawaii, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Ohio, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, and West Virginia. But in California, Louisiana, and New Mexico, second, third, and subsequent offenses may be prosecuted as felonies.

And some states also prohibit possession of cockfighting tools (implements) such as a gaff or slasher; ownership and training of cocks for the purpose of cockfighting; and attending cockfighting events.
Cockfighting laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—and usually in the state’s penal or criminal code.

In Pennsylvania, cockfighting is illegal and is considered a serious offense. Under Pennsylvania law, cockfighting is classified as animal cruelty and is addressed in the state's criminal code. The state prohibits not only the act of cockfighting itself but also the ownership, possession, training, and selling of cocks for fighting purposes. Additionally, Pennsylvania law criminalizes the possession of cockfighting implements, such as knives and gaffs that are designed to be attached to the legs of fighting birds. Attending a cockfighting event is also illegal. Violations of these laws can result in significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment. An attorney can provide more detailed information on the specific penalties and legal processes related to cockfighting charges in Pennsylvania.