Deputies discovered the alleged cockfighting operation after they were called to a property on County Road 697 in the Farmersville area Nov. 28, officials say.

COLLIN COUNTY, Texas — Eight people were arrested, and 55 live roosters were seized after deputies discovered an alleged cockfighting operation in Collin County, officials say. 

Deputies were called to a property on County Road 697 in the Farmersville area on Nov. 28 following a report of animal cruelty and saw about 20 people fleeing the scene on foot, according to the Collin County Sheriff’s Office. 

The Collin County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release that “multiple” people were detained on scene, and several others were detained and arrested in the surrounding area with assistance from the Hunt County Sheriff’s Office’s drone unit. 

Officials say 55 live fighting roosters, two dead roosters, cash and more were seized from the property. The roosters were taken by Collin County Animal Control, where they are currently being housed, officials say. 

Deputies say eight people were arrested on charges related to cockfighting and evading arrest, and “several others” were cited for spectating. Three of those who were arrested were later determined to be in the U.S. unlawfully, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement placed immigration detainers on them, according to the Collin County Sheriff’s Office. 

The Collin County Sheriff’s Office says the case remains under investigation and more charges may be filed.  

The news comes after 25 people were taken into custody on Thanksgiving Day following an alleged cockfighting investigation in Alvarado.Â