Law enforcement and prosecutors have a new tool in their battle against illegal animal fighting in Hawaii. The tool is in the form of cash, a reward program that may ignite more leads and convictions. Cockfighting is illegal in every state in the union but remains one of the most popular forms of illegal gambling.

"We in law enforcement all know -- that gambling feeds organized crime," said U.S. Attorney Ed Kubo.

Law enforcement is fighting back with a financial booster. The Humane Society of the United States is offering an enhanced reward for information leading up to the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in cockfighting or dogfighting.

"Our reward now stands at five-thousand dollars -- since this reward has taken affect we have already paid more than 18 awards with more pending," said Inga Gibson of the Humane Society of the United States.

In Hawaii, cockfighting is a misdemeanor -- dogfighting a Class C felony. Under the new federal Animal Fighting Prohibition Act, it is also a felony to sponsor, buy, sell or transport any animal or instruments for use in animal fighting.

"If you are allowing cockfighting on your property be prepared to lose it," said Kubo.

Earlier this month, Joseph Toralba became the first person to be convicted in Hawaii under the new federal law. Toralba was sentenced to two months in prison after smuggling 263 cockfighting gaffs from the Philippines. Gaffs are sharp, knife-like instruments that are attached to the leg of a fighting bird.

"This case sent a clear message -- that those who are involved will suffer stiff penalties," said Kubo.

In the last 16 months, federal officials have confiscated over 400 gaffs from the Philippines or Guam, incLuding 24 this month. Kubo challenges those in the community who believe cockfighting is a cultural form of recreation.

"If this cultural than why would you lay money down to bet on which animal would die," said Kubo. "Every dollars you bet -- a substantial portion of it will go into the pocket of those who are tied to organized crime in Hawaii."

Law enforcement experts say people who engage in violence against animals are more likely to show violence against people.

For more information about the animal fighting reward log on to:
The Humane Society Website