HARTFORD, Conn. -- The state has established a hot line for citizens to report illegal animal fighting.

The attorney general's office announced a national effort of state attorneys general to crack down on animal abuse and illegal animal fighting.

As part of this national effort, The Humane Society of the United States also announced the launch of a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone involved in illegal animal fighting.

Animal fighting -- including dogfighting and cockfighting -- is a pervasive problem in Connecticut and throughout the country, state Attorney General Richard Blumenthal said.

In August, police discovered 17 injured roosters and seized 15 hens from a Bloomfield house, where investigators said they suspected illegal cockfighting.

The Connecticut illegal animal fighting hot line number is 860-808-5180, and callers can remain anonymous.

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