Delaware Animal Services (DAS), the enforcement unit within the Office of Animal Welfare, announces the arrest of a man and woman involved in a cockfighting incident in May.

Billy Keen, age 51, and Andrea Keen, age 43, of Felton were arraigned August 18, 2023.  The husband and wife were each charged with one felony count of possessing an animal for the purpose of fighting. Andrea was additionally charged with a one felony count of being present for animal fighting. Both were released on their own recognizance.

On May 6, DAS received a report of a cockfight occurring at a farm located in the 3000 Block of Sandtown Road in Felton. When an animal welfare officer arrived, the officer found an active cockfight taking place with a crowd of people in attendance. Attendees quickly fled the scene.

Subsequently, DAS obtained a search warrant for the property. The investigation revealed that Andrea and Billy Keen, who own the farm, host illegal cockfighting events on the property.

Animal fighting is a cruel blood sport in which roosters bred for aggression are placed in a pit to fight for entertainment and gambling, often until one or both birds die.  Animal fighting is often linked to other crimes such as weapons, drugs and human violence.  It is illegal in all 50 states, and a felony crime in Delaware.

Anyone with information concerning this case is asked to contact Delaware Animal Services at 302-255-4646. All tips may remain confidential.

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