Illegal Cock Fighting Operation Uncovered in San Jacinto County, Texas
A recent operation by the San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office in Texas led to the arrest of nearly 20 individuals involved in an illegal cock fighting operation. The incident, which took place last month, resulted in the seizure of close to 100 live birds and the discovery of various cock fighting paraphernalia.
The illegal activity was brought to the attention of law enforcement when a call about animal cruelty was made to the San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office. Upon arrival at the scene on Maxine Road in Cleveland, San Jacinto County, law enforcement found between 250 and 300 individuals engaged in the illegal cockfighting operation. As soon as the individuals caught wind of the presence of law enforcement, they dispersed, fleeing into the surrounding woods and leaving approximately 100 vehicles behind. However, law enforcement was able to detain 19 individuals involved in the illegal activity.
Out of the 19 arrested individuals, 18 were charged with misdemeanors for viewing the illegal cock fights, while one person was charged with a felony for participating in the cruel activity. Additionally, one person was charged with felony possession of a controlled substance.
A total of 96 live birds were seized from different cages, vehicles, and transport boxes at the crime scene. In addition to live birds, dead birds were also found, along with cock fighting paraphernalia, such as razor-sharp objects called gaffs, which are attached to the feet of the birds and used to injure opposing roosters during fights.
The operation also led to the seizure of large sums of cash and firearms, with a total of $22,096 confiscated from the 19 people arrested. Furthermore, five fully loaded semi-automatic pistols were seized from the vehicles on site. Additionally, it was found that seven of the arrested individuals were undocumented aliens.
The San Jacinto County Sheriff’s Office emphasized that animal cruelty will not be tolerated in the county. The operation also uncovered steroids, drugs, vitamins, cages, and custom trailers used for transporting live birds, leading to the towing of 75 vehicles from the scene. Forty-three vehicles were seized, along with four custom trailers equipped for transporting birds. This incident highlights the county’s commitment to eliminating illegal cock fighting operations and holding those involved accountable for their actions.