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United States of America v. Jose Rivera
Date: 09-02-2026
Case Number: 1:24-cr-00075
Judge: Melissa R. DuBose
Court: United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island
Plaintiff's Attorney: Gary Donner, Stephen Da Ponte, and John McAdams
Defendant's Attorney: James McCormick
Description:
Providence, Rhode Island criminal defense lawyer represented the defendant charged with buying or transporting sharp instruments for use in an animal fighting venture in Violation of 7 U.S.C. § 2156(d) and 18 U.S.C. § 49(a).
On April 13, 2026, Jose Rivera, 70, admitted the he violated the Animal Welfare Act for is involvement in the 2022 cockfighting operation. Rivera admitted that he traveled from Massachusetts to Rhode Island to participate in a cockfight and that he transported gaffs and other sharp instruments he had purchased, which were designed or intended to be attached to a rooster’s leg during a fight. Rivera further acknowledged that he knew the cockfights were conducted for sport, wagering, and entertainment.
On April 13, 2026, Jose Rivera, 70, admitted the he violated the Animal Welfare Act for is involvement in the 2022 cockfighting operation. Rivera admitted that he traveled from Massachusetts to Rhode Island to participate in a cockfight and that he transported gaffs and other sharp instruments he had purchased, which were designed or intended to be attached to a rooster’s leg during a fight. Rivera further acknowledged that he knew the cockfights were conducted for sport, wagering, and entertainment.
Outcome:
The Defendant pled guilty and was sentenced to two years of probation, a $200 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
Plaintiff's Experts:
Defendant's Experts:
Comments:
About This Case
What was the outcome of United States of America v. Jose Rivera?
The outcome was: The Defendant pled guilty and was sentenced to two years of probation, a $200 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
Which court heard United States of America v. Jose Rivera?
This case was heard in United States District Court for the District of Rhode Island, RI. The presiding judge was Melissa R. DuBose.
Who were the attorneys in United States of America v. Jose Rivera?
Plaintiff's attorney: Gary Donner, Stephen Da Ponte, and John McAdams. Defendant's attorney: James McCormick.
When was United States of America v. Jose Rivera decided?
This case was decided on September 2, 2026.