WPBN: The investigation of a large-scale dogfighting and cockfighting organization is underway in Kaufman County, Texas.
After a significant intervention by the Texas-based Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) earlier this week, this unlawful activity—which is a serious form of animal cruelty—came to light. Due to the operation, the persistent problem of animal exploitation for entertainment and gambling has gained attention.
A search warrant was carried out at an unidentified site in Kaufman County on December 17, 2024, by law enforcement officers working with the SPCA of Texas.
As a result of the operation, over 100 animals were found and saved from the farm. Authorities took out 10 puppies, 34 adult dogs, 50 roosters, and 43 hens. After being saved, the animals were placed in the SPCA’s care, where they will get medical care, rehabilitation, and the chance to live healthier lives.
Investigators discovered heavy evidence during the operation that the site was being used for organized dogfighting and cockfighting sports. The premises were found to be littered with items and paraphernalia related to these unlawful activities.
The documents indicated the operation was large and systematic, and the tools and equipment were typical for training animals for combat.
The SPCA of Texas said in a statement on Thursday that they are dedicated to providing the animals in this situation with justice. The group stressed the value of these kinds of actions in the fight against animal abuse and asked people to report any suspicions of such criminal activity in their neighborhoods.
Under Texas law, cockfighting and dogfighting are also prohibited, and those found guilty of planning or taking part in these crimes face harsh punishments.
In addition to the legal repercussions, these actions cause animals great pain via beatings, injuries, and frequently death. Addressing animal abuse in Kaufman County has advanced significantly with the removal of the animals from this specific activity.
As investigators attempt to identify the people who planned the unlawful activity, the inquiry is still underway. Also, efforts are being done to guarantee the animals’ long-term well-being.
Experts in animal welfare and veterinary medicine are evaluating each animal’s behavior and health in-depth to decide on the best course of action.
The Texas SPCA has advocated for greater community support and awareness in order to stop future occurrences of this kind. People are urged to notify local authorities or animal protection groups of any indications of animal abuse.
By doing this, they can hold people responsible for their acts and assist save the suffering of animals that are at risk.
“Medications, a scale, several blood-splattered treadmills, and caches of paraphernalia, including slashers and gaffs, were also found on the property,” the SPCA stated in a news release. “Empty rooster transport boxes were also found.”
According to the SPCA, several of the roosters were housed in metal-covered wire cages, while others were housed in a temporary barn. They were only given access to tainted water. According to the organization, the hens are thought to be related to an earlier this year cockfighting probe.
According to the SPCA, some of the dogs were left in the open chained, while others had access to metal roofing, barrels, and tarps. Numerous dogs were reported to be injured and underweight.
“Most areas were thick with mud and some areas contained standing water due to recent rain,” according to the SPCA.
In Texas, cockfighting and dogfighting are prohibited and punishable by felony. While the Texas Safe Outdoor Dogs Act forbids chaining dogs without proper shelter and water, federal law forbids the interstate transportation of combat animals.
