Rodriguez-Gasca Rodriguez

Over the past several weeks, the Joliet Police Narcotics Unit conducted an investigation involving a residence in the 400 block of Meeker Avenue.
During the course of that investigation, officers observed a large number of roosters confined in cages in the backyard. As the investigation progressed, information was developed indicating these animals may have been used for fighting purposes. Based on those findings, the scope of the investigation was expanded.
As part of the narcotics investigation, detectives obtained a search warrant for the residence and for resident Rolando Rodriguez-Gasca, age 39 of Joliet. On the morning of April 29, 2026, members of our Narcotics Unit along with officers from our Tactical Unit, K9 Unit, Neighborhood Oriented Policing Team, and Patrol Division, executed that search warrant.
Prior to the warrant being served, tactical officers conducted a traffic stop and safely took Rodriguez-Gasca into custody after observing him leave the residence.
During the execution of the search warrant, officers located another individual inside the residence, identified as Fortino Rodriguez, age 51 of Joliet, who was also taken into custody. A search of the home resulted in the recovery of suspected cocaine and cash.
While at the home, officers located numerous roosters both inside and outside of the residence, along with equipment consistent with an illegal animal fighting operation. At that point, members of our Animal Crimes Team were activated and responded to assist further expanding the investigation. A second search warrant was subsequently obtained by the Animal Crimes Team related to the animal cruelty component of the case.
In total, 29 animals were recovered from the property, including roosters, hens, chicks and a young terrier puppy. Several of the roosters showed physical alterations consistent with animal fighting. Investigators also recovered equipment associated with these activities, including metal spurs, straps, medications and transport containers.
Working in coordination with Joliet Township Animal Control and the Will County State’s Attorney’s Office, all animals were safely removed and are now receiving proper medical care.
Following a review of this case, the Will County State’s Attorney’s Office approved the following charges:

Rolando Rodriguez-Gasca
• Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver
• Two Counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance
• Two Counts of Delivery of a Controlled Substance
• Eight Counts of Animal Torture
• Eight Counts of Cruel Treatment of Animals
• Eight Counts of Animals in Entertainment Violation
Fortino Rodriguez
• Delivery of a Controlled Substance
• Possession of a Controlled Substance
• Animal Torture
• Cruel Treatment of Animals
• Animals in Entertainment Violation

“What began as a focused narcotics investigation ultimately uncovered a much larger and deeply concerning operation. Because of the diligence, training, and coordination of our personnel, we were able to address both the drug activity and the inhumane treatment of animals,” said Joliet Police Chief Bill Evans.
“I would like to specifically recognize Officer Kozielski and Detective Eaton, both dedicated members of our Animal Crimes Team, for their critical role in this investigation once the animal abuse was identified.
Our Animal Crimes Team is made up of officers and detectives from across the department who come together with a shared purpose, to investigate crimes involving animals and ensure their protection.
“These members receive specialized training that allows them to approach these cases with both expertise and compassion.
“Their work is strengthened through ongoing collaboration with the Will County State’s Attorney’s Office and Joliet Township Animal Control. These partnerships are essential in ensuring these cases are thoroughly investigated, appropriately prosecuted, and that the welfare of the animals remains a priority.
“The dedication demonstrated in this case reflects our commitment as a department. We remain focused on protecting our community, holding individuals accountable, and ensuring the safety and well-being of both our residents and the animals within our city.”
Will County State’s Attorney James Glasgow said this case highlights the collaboration between the State’s Attorney’s Office, the Joliet Police Department and the Joliet Township Animal Control.
“It started as a drug bust and led to the discovery of animal torture. Animal cruelty is not an isolated act it is often a warning sign of broader violence. The same individuals who harm defenseless animals frequently pose a danger to people as well.
“I am very proud of our team of specialty prosecutors, and all the charges will be litigated to the fullest extent of the law. We will continue to stand with our law enforcement and community partners to send a clear message: this kind of brutality has no place in Will County.”