AMARILLO, TX — In one of the largest cockfighting busts in Texas history, law enforcement authorities in Potter County discovered an operation last weekend involving nearly 200 roosters forced to fight for the entertainment of a crowd of approximately 50 people. Lt. Dustin Langwell from the Potter County Sheriff's Office expressed disbelief, stating, "A normal cockfighting ring is between 15 and 20 birds. This one with over 170 birds is just unheard of."
The operation, uncovered on Saturday, resulted in the arrest of the alleged organizer, Ivan Guadelupe Herrera-Lopez. All attendees were charged with a Class C misdemeanor, as it is illegal to witness or participate in a cockfighting event.
Ryan Hunter, one of three Texas Game Wardens involved in the operation, said the brutality of the fights, showcasing razor blades used to maximize the lethality of the birds during combat. This form of animal cruelty is not only illegal but also inhumane.
Cock Fighting Ring Taken Down
(Credit: One of the over 170 roosters seized in the Potter County bust, Mitchell Downing/KVII)
Cock Fighting Ring
(Credit: One of the over 170 roosters seized in the Potter County bust, Mitchell Downing/KVII)
Birds in cages
(Credit: One of the over 170 roosters seized in the Potter County bust, Mitchell Downing/KVII)
Following the bust, the Wild West Wildlife Rehabilitation Center stepped in to assist, volunteering to care for the rescued roosters. Executive Director Stephanie Brady explained the challenges in handling these aggressive birds, stating, "They have to be covered when they are around each other or have a divider between them because they will want to pull each other through the cage and kill each other." Thirteen of the rescued roosters had to be euthanized due to their condition.
The investigation also revealed that some spectators were in the United States illegally. They have been turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for deportation.
The Potter County Sheriff's Office has handed over the case to the District Attorney's office for further legal action against those responsible for the illegal and cruel cockfighting operation.
Suspect One
(Credit: One of the over 170 roosters seized in the Potter County bust, Mitchell Downing/KVII)
Suspect Two
(Credit: One of the over 170 roosters seized in the Potter County bust, Mitchell Downing/KVII)
Birds kept in cages
(Credit: One of the over 170 roosters seized in the Potter County bust, Mitchell Downing/KVII)
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