Johnson County police allegedly found dead and injured animals, as well as a fighting ring during the bust.
JOHNSON COUNTY, Texas — Law enforcement officials in Johnson County busted an alleged cockfighting operation, making one arrest, police said in a press release.
Deputies with the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office responded to the 12100 block of FM 200 in the unincorporated Cleburne area of the county around 2:10 p.m. March 8 after receiving reports of a suspected cockfighting operation, according to the release.
Several other agencies were involved in the sting, including the Bosque County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety Troopers, and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Game Wardens.
Deputies found evidence consistent with an active cockfighting operation, including several deceased gamecocks, four live gamecocks suffering from severe injuries believed to be consistent with fighting, as well as a fighting ring believed to be used for illegal activity, police said in the release.
One suspect attempted to evade police in a vehicle upon their arrival but was taken into custody, according to the release. The suspect has been identified as Nicandro Mora of Waxahachie, who was charged with cockfighting, evading arrest with a vehicle and multiple counts of cruelty to animals, police said.
The animals recovered will be transported and housed at the Humane Society of North Texas pending the outcome of a seizure hearing.
People with information regarding these alleged activities are encouraged to report it to local law enforcement.