COOLIDGE, AZ — Arizona Department of Public Safety officials announced Coolidge cockfighting arrests of two men on October 29, 2025, after State Gang Task Force detectives concluded a lengthy probe into an alleged large-scale illegal enterprise operation.
Samuel Felix, 60, and Gerald Vaughn, 61, were taken into custody and charged with operating the illegal operation.
Each suspect was charged with one count of Controlling an Illegal Enterprise along with 80 counts of Cockfighting. Vaughn received three additional Animal Cruelty charges stemming from how other animals discovered on his property were kept and cared for.
During the operation, detectives seized significant evidence, including 110 roosters used for fighting and 154 hens. Investigators also recovered equipment and items used for cockfighting activities and training. The seizure included firearms, items associated with gang activity, steroids, financial records, currency, and multiple dogs and rabbits.
The agency thanked its partner organizations for their collaboration on the case, including the Pinal County Attorney’s Office, Coolidge Police Department, Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, Pinal County Animal Control, Coolidge Animal Control, and the Arizona Humane Society.
