The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has announced the arrest of Pinon Hills resident Jorge Castaneda following the execution of a search warrant as part of an ongoing Animal Cruelty investigation.
On Wednesday, September 24, 2025, investigators with the Rural Crimes Task Force served a search warrant at a residence in the 1500 block of Pinon Hills Road. During the search, investigators located 35 game cocks believed to have been used in illegal cockfighting. At least one bird exhibited injuries consistent with recent fighting, and several items commonly associated with cockfighting activities were also located.
In addition to the animal cruelty findings, investigators located multiple firearms, including three AK-47 style rifles that are non-compliant with California state laws.
Castaneda was taken into custody and transported to the High Desert Detention Center. He has since been released and is facing charges of intentional animal cruelty and possession of illegal firearms.
Cockfighting is a serious offense and is illegal under California law. The Rural Crimes Task Force remains committed to thoroughly investigating and prosecuting crimes involving animal cruelty.
Anyone with information about this investigation is urged to contact the Victor Valley Station at (760) 552-6800 or Sheriff’s Dispatch at (760) 956-5001.
Callers wishing to remain anonymous may contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME (27463) or submit information online at www.wetip.com.
