ALVARADO, Texas — A major Thanksgiving Day cockfighting ring was busted in Johnson County on Thursday morning, leading to 25 arrests and the rescue of more than 60 roosters, according to the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO).
Deputies Respond to Animal Cruelty Call
Authorities said deputies were dispatched around 11 a.m. to a property on Deborah Drive following reports of animal cruelty and illegal cockfighting activity. When officers arrived, they found a large group of people attempting to flee the scene.
All suspects were quickly detained with assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety and Texas Game Wardens.
“This was a coordinated, illegal event involving dozens of participants,” a JCSO spokesperson said. “Our deputies acted swiftly to shut it down and prevent further animal cruelty.”
Under Texas Penal Code 42.105, cockfighting is a felony offense punishable by fines and possible prison time.
Roosters Rescued, Evidence Seized
Investigators recovered more than 60 roosters from the property, several of which showed signs of severe injuries consistent with fighting. Two birds required emergency medical care provided by Nature’s Edge Wildlife Rehabilitation, which assisted at the scene.
Officials also found a large trophy reportedly meant to be awarded to the winning participant of the illegal event. The trophy, along with other paraphernalia, has been placed in evidence storage pending prosecution.
Juveniles Found at Scene
Three juveniles were also discovered at the cockfighting site. The sheriff’s office confirmed that they were released to responsible family members who were not present during the illegal activity.
“Seeing minors in this environment is deeply concerning,” the sheriff’s office noted. “We’re working with child services to ensure they are kept safe.”
Multi-Agency Operation Secures Scene
The bust was part of a multi-agency response involving Texas Game Wardens and DPS troopers, who helped deputies secure the area and manage the crowd.
Photos shared by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office showed dozens of roosters in cages and evidence marked for processing.
Community Urged to Report Animal Cruelty
The sheriff’s office is encouraging residents to report any suspected animal cruelty or illegal animal fighting activities to Johnson County Crime Stoppers or the sheriff’s communications division.
“These events are brutal, inhumane, and illegal,” the department said in a statement. “We’re committed to holding every participant accountable.”
The investigation remains ongoing, and formal charges are expected to be filed in the coming days.
Stay with HonkNews.com for continuing updates on this developing story from Johnson County.