Alvarado, Texas, November 29, 2025
On Thanksgiving Day, Johnson County sheriff’s deputies conducted a raid in Alvarado, Texas, resulting in the arrest of 25 individuals and the rescue of 74 roosters linked to a cockfighting operation. The raid followed reports of animal cruelty, with deputies detaining a group attempting to flee the scene. The investigation remains ongoing, emphasizing the fight against illegal cockfighting and animal abuse in the region.
Alvarado, Texas – Thanksgiving Day Cockfighting Raid Leads to 25 Arrests and Rescue of 74 Roosters
Alvarado, Texas – On Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025, Johnson County sheriff’s deputies arrested 25 individuals and rescued 74 roosters during a raid on a suspected cockfighting operation in Alvarado, Texas. The operation took place on Deborah Drive, approximately 20 miles south of Fort Worth. Deputies responded to reports of possible animal cruelty and illegal cockfighting activities around 11 a.m. Upon arrival, a large group attempted to flee but was quickly detained. Three juveniles were also found at the scene and were released to responsible family members who were not present during the incident. Deputies seized a trophy intended for the event, which will be held as evidence pending trial. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities encourage residents to report suspicious activities to assist law enforcement.
Details of the Raid
Deputies responded to a report of possible animal cruelty and illegal cockfighting on Deborah Drive around 11 a.m. When deputies arrived, a large group attempted to flee but were quickly detained. Three juveniles were also found at the scene and were released to responsible family members who were not present during the incident. Deputies seized a trophy intended for the event, which will be held as evidence pending trial. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities encourage residents to report suspicious activities to assist law enforcement.
Background on Cockfighting in Texas
Cockfighting is a felony offense in Texas under Penal Code 42.105. Engaging in or attending a cockfight is illegal and subject to severe penalties. The recent raid in Alvarado highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat illegal cockfighting activities in the region. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activities to assist in these efforts.
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, along with assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety and Texas Game Wardens, secured the scene and apprehended the suspects. The rescued roosters, including two with serious injuries, were transferred to Nature’s Edge Wildlife Rehabilitation for care. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities encourage residents to report suspicious activities to assist law enforcement.
Related Incidents in the Region
In recent years, there have been multiple incidents related to illegal cockfighting in North Texas. For example, in July 2025, a massive cockfighting operation was busted in Henderson County, resulting in the rescue of 89 roosters and the arrest of nine suspects. These incidents underscore the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing illegal cockfighting activities in the region.
Legal Implications
Engaging in or attending a cockfight is illegal in Texas and can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The recent raid in Alvarado serves as a reminder of the state’s commitment to enforcing laws against animal cruelty and illegal activities. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to assist law enforcement in these efforts.
Community Involvement
The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office has expressed gratitude to the community for their vigilance and assistance in reporting suspicious activities. The public’s involvement is crucial in combating illegal activities and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. Residents are encouraged to continue reporting any suspicious activities to law enforcement.
Conclusion
The Thanksgiving Day raid in Alvarado resulted in significant arrests and the rescue of numerous roosters, highlighting the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat illegal cockfighting in North Texas. The community’s involvement and vigilance play a vital role in these efforts, and residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to assist law enforcement in maintaining the safety and well-being of the community.
FAQ
What happened during the Thanksgiving Day raid in Alvarado, Texas?
On November 27, 2025, Johnson County sheriff’s deputies arrested 25 individuals and rescued 74 roosters during a raid on a suspected cockfighting operation in Alvarado, Texas. The operation took place on Deborah Drive, approximately 20 miles south of Fort Worth. Deputies responded to reports of possible animal cruelty and illegal cockfighting activities around 11 a.m. Upon arrival, a large group attempted to flee but was quickly detained. Three juveniles were also found at the scene and were released to responsible family members who were not present during the incident. Deputies seized a trophy intended for the event, which will be held as evidence pending trial. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities encourage residents to report suspicious activities to assist law enforcement.
What are the legal consequences of participating in a cockfight in Texas?
Cockfighting is a felony offense in Texas under Penal Code 42.105. Engaging in or attending a cockfight is illegal and subject to severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The recent raid in Alvarado highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat illegal cockfighting activities in the region. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activities to assist in these efforts.
How can residents assist law enforcement in preventing illegal cockfighting?
Residents can assist law enforcement by reporting any suspicious activities related to animal cruelty or illegal cockfighting. The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office encourages the public to be vigilant and to contact their communications division or Johnson County Crime Stoppers with any information. Community involvement is crucial in combating illegal activities and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.
What is the current status of the investigation into the Alvarado cockfighting operation?
The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to gather more information and evidence related to the suspected cockfighting operation. Deputies seized a trophy intended for the event, which will be held as evidence pending trial. The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, along with assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety and Texas Game Wardens, secured the scene and apprehended the suspects. The rescued roosters, including two with serious injuries, were transferred to Nature’s Edge Wildlife Rehabilitation for care. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activities to assist law enforcement in these efforts.
Have there been similar incidents in the North Texas area?
Yes, in recent years, there have been multiple incidents related to illegal cockfighting in North Texas. For example, in July 2025, a massive cockfighting operation was busted in Henderson County, resulting in the rescue of 89 roosters and the arrest of nine suspects. These incidents underscore the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing illegal cockfighting activities in the region.
Key Features of the Alvarado Cockfighting Raid
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Alvarado, Texas |
| Date of Raid | November 27, 2025 |
| Number of Arrests | 25 individuals |
| Number of Roosters Rescued | 74 roosters |
| Assisting Agencies | Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Game Wardens |
| Rescue Organization | Nature’s Edge Wildlife Rehabilitation |
| Legal Status | Investigation ongoing; charges pending |
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