COLUMBIA -- A months-long undercover investigation by the Department of Natural Resources has resulted in arrest warrants for 36 people allegedly involved in two cockfighting rings in South Carolina.

According to Attorney General Henry McMaster, the rings operated in Lexington and Williamsburg counties and were discovered via a 13-month undercover investigation during which DNR agents attended cockfights.

Cockfighting is a misdemeanor crime in South Carolina and carries a maximum penalty of one year in prison or a $1,000 fine.

"Cockfighting is a crime that leaves an ugly scar on our community," said McMaster. "The criminal underworld surrounding it is a haven for drugs, violence, and gambling. This sting would not have been possible without the dedicated officers of DNR who led and executed this operation."