By Alric Lindsay
In a stern rebuke of animal cruelty, the Chief Magistrate handed down a conditional discharge to a local man involved in cockfighting, highlighting the inhumane treatment of birds bred for the illegal activity.
The defendant, identified as Mario Martino Ramoon, appeared before the Summary Court today, January 19, 2026 on charges of cruelty to animals and cockfighting. According to court proceedings, in February 2025, authorities discovered birds that had been surgically altered for fighting purposes. A report from the Department of Agriculture detailed the grim conditions: the majority of the birds lacked combs, wattles, earlobes, and natural spurs, which had been intentionally removed—likely by unlicensed individuals—to accommodate artificial spurs used in fights.
The Chief Magistrate described the practice as “horrible” and “unethical.” Due to the animals’ extreme training and conditioning, they could not be rehomed. “I don’t understand how anyone could think that the sport is enjoyable,” the Chief Magistrate remarked, emphasizing the extended period over which Ramoon had engaged in the activity.
Ramoon pleaded guilty early in the process. His counsel portrayed him as a man of “exemplary character,” who neither smokes nor drinks and has contributed positively to society. The defense highlighted Ramoon’s medical conditions, which may require travel, and argued that a conviction could hinder his ability to do so. A social inquiry report recommended no conviction, citing his remorse and lack of further involvement since his arrest.
Taking into account Ramoon’s personal mitigating factors, including his cooperation with the Humane Society for nearly a year and his guilty plea, the court opted for leniency. Ramoon was given a 12-month conditional discharge, during which he must complete 100 hours of community service. He was also ordered to pay $2,040 in costs to the Department of Agriculture. If he complies fully and avoids reoffending, no conviction will be recorded.
The case serves as a reminder of the Cayman Islands’ strict stance against animal cruelty, with the Chief Magistrate balancing the severity of the offense against the defendant’s rehabilitation potential. Cockfighting remains illegal under local laws, and authorities continue to crack down on such practices to protect animal welfare.
