Hundreds Flee When Police Break Up Cockfighting Ring
SPCA Takes Custody Of Animals
POSTED: Monday, May 15, 2006
HOUSTON -- Hundreds of people fled after police broke up a cockfighting tournament in southeast Houston, KPRC Local 2 reported.
Investigators showed up on a property located in the 12000 block of Martindale near Madden at about 5 p.m. Sunday.
Police said between 300 and 400 people ran off, including families with young children.
Investigators said the cockfighting ring was well organized with seats for viewing, a concession stand and performance enhancement drugs for the animals.
Some people left the scene without their vehicles, but were questioned when they returned to pick them up.
"I didn't know anything about this," said Pedro Garcia, who was questioned by police.
"Did you know cockfighting was illegal in Texas?" KPRC Local 2 asked.
"No, no, I mean, I don't know anything about that," Garcia said.
No arrests were made in connection with cockfighting. Two officers went to the property after receiving a tip, but said all the people at the tournament outnumbered them.
Two people were taken into custody on unrelated charges.
The bodies of seven animals were found on the property. Officials said they died from fighting.
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals picked up about 100 roosters and chickens, two dogs and one horse.
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