Alleged Cockfighting Ring Busted on Thanksgiving Day
Twenty-five people have been taken into custody after the Johnson County sheriff’s office busted an alleged cockfight on Thanksgiving Day in Alvarado, officials said.
Deputies descended Thursday morning on Deborah Drive, after receiving a report of possible animal cruelty and illegal cockfighting activity, according to officials. Law enforcement’s presence prompted a large crowd to disperse and attempt to flee.
What is Cockfighting?
Cockfighting — a blood sport in which gamecocks are pitted against each other and gaffs (razor blades) sometimes are tied to fighting birds’ legs — is a felony crime in Texas. It is a misdemeanor offense to be a spectator.
Investigation and Arrests
It is unclear if charges have been filed in connection to the raid. Johnson County sheriff’s office spokesperson Keven George said additional information is not being released at this time, pending the active investigation.
Breaking News
Rescue Efforts
Nature’s Edge Wildlife and Reptile Rescue is caring for more than 70 roosters rescued from the alleged fight, according to a Friday post on its Facebook page.
When reached by phone, an employee for the Johnson County nonprofit directed further questions to the sheriff’s office.
“They are currently receiving pain medication, antibiotics, and supportive care. To ensure their safety and recovery, as these are fighting birds, each rooster must be housed individually; they cannot be housed together under any circumstances,” the organization wrote on Facebook.
Rehabilitation and Adoption
Under the post, some users questioned the birds’ potential rehabilitation given their fighting past, instead suggesting that they be cooked. The center dismissed the idea, citing some of the birds’ open sores and unknown diet.
“We have resources for rescues that specialize in taking in these roosters. They can absolutely go to [good] homes and live long, healthy lives,” the center wrote in a reply.
Prevalence of Cockfighting in the Region
The Texoma corridor — an area that encompasses Dallas and stretches north to Tulsa — was described as “America’s primary hub of illegal cockfighting,” in an October report from an animal rights group, Animal Wellness Action.
Last December, nearly 140 animals were rescued from a suspected dog and cockfighting ring in Kaufman County. Among the roosters found, many of the birds’ access to water was contaminated.
In 2022, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals of Texas seized over 130 chickens linked to a cockfighting operation in Rylie. Dead birds were found throughout the property, according to the group.
Response from Animal Rights Groups
“Holding a cockfight on Thanksgiving is grotesque — mocking everything related to community and family that the holiday represents,” said Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action, in a statement. “But let’s remember that cockfighting is a depraved activity every day of the year, and that’s why we are grateful to the Johnson County Sheriff and his deputies for busting this violent and criminal conduct yesterday. We urge swift and meaningful justice in this case of violent animal cruelty.”
Conclusion
The alleged cockfighting ring busted on Thanksgiving Day is a disturbing reminder of the prevalence of animal cruelty in our society. It is essential to recognize the severity of this crime and the need for swift and meaningful justice. The rescue efforts and rehabilitation of the roosters are a testament to the dedication of animal welfare organizations and the importance of protecting animals from cruelty and abuse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is cockfighting?
A: Cockfighting is a blood sport in which gamecocks are pitted against each other, often with razor blades attached to their legs.
Q: Is cockfighting legal in Texas?
A: No, cockfighting is a felony crime in Texas, and it is also a misdemeanor offense to be a spectator.
Q: How many roosters were rescued from the alleged fight?
A: More than 70 roosters were rescued from the alleged fight and are being cared for by Nature’s Edge Wildlife and Reptile Rescue.
Q: Can the rescued roosters be rehabilitated and adopted?
A: Yes, the rescued roosters can be rehabilitated and adopted. The center has resources for rescues that specialize in taking in these roosters, and they can go to good homes and live long, healthy lives.
