Section 30-18-9 - Dog fighting and cockfighting; penalty. - New Mexico Statutes

30-18-9. Dog fighting and cockfighting; penalty.

A.     It is unlawful for any person to cause, sponsor, arrange, hold or participate in a fight between dogs or cocks for the purpose of monetary gain or entertainment.  Participation in a fight between dogs or cocks for the purpose of monetary gain or entertainment consists of an adult knowingly: 

(1)     being present at a dog fight without attempting to interfere with or stop the contest; or 

(2)     owning or equipping one of the participating dogs or cocks with knowledge of the contest.  

B.     It is unlawful to train, equip or sponsor a dog or cock for the purpose of having it participate in a fight with another dog or cock, respectively, for monetary gain or entertainment.  

C.     Any person violating the provisions of Subsection A or B of this section, as it pertains to dogs, is guilty of a fourth degree felony.  

D.     Any person violating the provisions of Subsection A or B of this section as it pertains to cocks: 

(1)     upon a first conviction, is guilty of a petty misdemeanor; 

(2)     upon a second conviction, is guilty of a misdemeanor; and 

(3)     upon a third or subsequent conviction, is guilty of a fourth degree felony.