Harris County law enforcement swooped in on a cockfighting ring bust, nabbing one person and handing out multiple citations at a property in northeast Harris County. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office charged a local man with a misdemeanor for his role in the savage bird battles.
The bust occurred at 13100 block of Millsite Rd., where authorities had previously done surveillance earlier in the month after tips suggested illegal activity. Despite no evidence at the time, a citizen's call on Sunday confirmed the gruesome event was taking place there. According to Click2Houston, patrol deputies arrived to find 20-30 individuals fleeing the scene.
More than 115 birds, including both roosters and hens, were rescued from the property by the authorities, as well as the Houston SPCA who assisted in the investigation. The property owner, while charged, defended himself stating he was merely allowing his land to be used and profited from the gambling that occurred, as reported by KHOU and relayed by Houston Chronicle. Constable Alan Rosen shared the owner's claims, "He claims he was just allowing his land to be used for cockfighting, and he would profit by way of whatever gambling was going on out there,”
Several of the birds were found in severe condition, with some already deceased due to the fights, which often involved blades attached to their legs. "Cockfighting is cruel and barbaric, and it is always bound up with other crimes," stated Wayne Pacelle, president of Animal Wellness Action, emphasizing the need for strict policies against such staged animal fights. Investigators also discovered multiple makeshift rings and blades believed to be used in the cockfights. The ongoing investigation is looking to identify additional suspects, with the possibility of more criminal charges pending a review by the Harris County District Attorney's Office Animal Cruelty Section.
