Farmersville, Texas, December 2, 2025
In a significant operation on November 28, the Collin County Sheriff’s Office disrupted an illegal cockfighting ring in Farmersville, Texas. This led to the arrest of eight individuals and the seizure of 57 roosters. The operation followed reports of animal cruelty, and various charges were filed against those apprehended, highlighting the ongoing issue of illegal cockfighting in Texas. The investigation remains active with further actions anticipated.
Farmersville, Texas: Eight Arrested in Collin County Cockfighting Bust
Farmersville, Texas – On November 28, 2025, the Collin County Sheriff’s Office disrupted an active cockfighting operation in the Farmersville area, leading to the arrest of eight individuals and the seizure of 57 roosters.
Details of the Operation
Deputies responded to a report of animal cruelty at a rural property on County Road 697. Upon arrival, approximately 20 individuals fled on foot. A search warrant was obtained, resulting in the seizure of 55 live fighting roosters, two deceased roosters, various cockfighting paraphernalia, and cash. The roosters were taken into custody by Collin County Animal Control for care and housing.
Arrests and Charges
The following individuals were arrested and charged:
- Maria Eduwiges Noguez Martinez and Diego Armando Alanis: Charged with “Cockfighting: Causes or Earns” (State Jail Felony). Bonds set at $20,000 and $30,000, respectively.
- Leonardo Rodriguez Bautista and Cesar Antonio Gutierrez Pena: Charged with “Cockfighting: Space/Owns/Trains/Equips” (Class A Misdemeanor) and “Evading Arrest or Detention” (Class A Misdemeanor). Bonds set at $20,000 and $10,000, respectively.
- Jose Luis Martinez Alvarez, Aldo Jesus Osornia Victorino, Emilio Pereyra Govea, and Zacorios Octavio Castilleja: Charged with “Evading Arrest or Detention” (Class A Misdemeanor) and issued citations for “Cockfighting Spectating” (Class C Misdemeanor). Bonds set at $10,000 each.
Additionally, three individuals were determined to be in the United States unlawfully, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) placed immigration detainers on them. The investigation remains active, and further charges may be forthcoming.
Background on Cockfighting in Texas
Cockfighting is illegal in all 50 states, including Texas, where it is classified as a felony to cause a bird to fight or to participate in earnings from a fight. Attending a cockfight, allowing the use of property for a fight, owning or training a bird with the intent it be used for fighting, and possessing paraphernalia like knives attached to birds’ legs during battles are classified as misdemeanors. Despite these laws, illegal cockfighting persists, particularly in regions like the corridor between Tulsa and Dallas, which has been identified as a primary hub for such activities in the U.S.
Recent Related Incidents
This bust follows a Thanksgiving Day raid in Johnson County, where authorities arrested 25 individuals and seized more than 50 roosters. Similar operations have been conducted in other parts of Texas, highlighting ongoing efforts to combat illegal cockfighting.
Law Enforcement’s Commitment
The Collin County Sheriff’s Office remains dedicated to enforcing animal cruelty laws and dismantling illegal animal fighting operations. The public is encouraged to report any suspected illegal activities to local authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened in the Farmersville cockfighting bust?
On November 28, 2025, the Collin County Sheriff’s Office disrupted an active cockfighting operation in Farmersville, Texas, leading to the arrest of eight individuals and the seizure of 57 roosters.
What charges were the arrested individuals facing?
The individuals were charged with various offenses, including “Cockfighting: Causes or Earns” (State Jail Felony), “Cockfighting: Space/Owns/Trains/Equips” (Class A Misdemeanor), “Evading Arrest or Detention” (Class A Misdemeanor), and “Cockfighting Spectating” (Class C Misdemeanor).
What is the legal status of cockfighting in Texas?
Cockfighting is illegal in all 50 states, including Texas, where it is classified as a felony to cause a bird to fight or to participate in earnings from a fight. Attending a cockfight, allowing the use of property for a fight, owning or training a bird with the intent it be used for fighting, and possessing paraphernalia like knives attached to birds’ legs during battles are classified as misdemeanors.
What is the current status of the investigation?
The investigation remains active, and further charges may be forthcoming. The public is encouraged to report any suspected illegal activities to local authorities.
Key Features of the Collin County Cockfighting Bust
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Bust | November 28, 2025 |
| Location | Farmersville, Texas |
| Number of Arrests | Eight individuals |
| Number of Roosters Seized | 57 roosters |
| Charges Faced by Arrested Individuals | “Cockfighting: Causes or Earns” (State Jail Felony), “Cockfighting: Space/Owns/Trains/Equips” (Class A Misdemeanor), “Evading Arrest or Detention” (Class A Misdemeanor), “Cockfighting Spectating” (Class C Misdemeanor) |
| Additional Information | Three individuals were determined to be in the United States unlawfully, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) placed immigration detainers on them. The investigation remains active, and further charges may be forthcoming. |
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