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 Rhode Island, cockfighting is illegal and considered a form of animal cruelty. Under Rhode Island General Laws Section 4-1-2, any form of animal fighting, including cockfighting, is prohibited. The law specifically criminalizes not only engaging in cockfighting but also being present as a spectator at such an event. Additionally, the possession of birds for fighting purposes and possession of cockfighting implements are also illegal. Violations of these laws can result in significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The severity of the punishment depends on the nature of the offense and whether it is a first or subsequent violation. As with other states, these laws are part of Rhode Island's penal or criminal code and reflect the state's commitment to preventing animal cruelty and the associated activities of animal fighting.