Denton Criminal Attorney

Texas Cockfighting Laws

Cockfighting is a problem in every state, Texas included. It is also illegal in every state. Although some people call cockfighting a “sport,” in reality it is a bloody, vicious, and cruel activity. Chichens are trained in harsh ways to fight each other to the death, and their natural spurs are cut off and replaced by metal ones. Because of pressure to stop such a cruel activity, Texas has cockfighting laws.

In Texas, the act of cockfighting itself is illegal. Cockfighting is considered a felony in Texas. People who are convicted of cockfighting face anywhere from 180 days to 2 years in prison. In addition, they can be made to pay up to $10,000 in fines.

While cockfighting itself is illegal in Texas, other acts and activities associated with it are currently not. Specifically, in Texas it is legal for people to

• Possess tools and implements that are meant for cockfighting
• Have cocks that are to be used for cockfighting
• Be a spectator at a cockfight

These are very large loopholes in Texas cockfighting law. Currently, however, the Texas state legislature is considering closing these loopholes for multiple reasons. One is the obvious reason that they enable people to continue cockfighting. Another reason is because at cockfights, other illegal activities often take place, including drug trafficking and arms exchange.

Speak with a Denton Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with cockfighting in Texas, a criminal defense lawyer can help. Contact the Denton criminal attorney of Alexander & Associates by calling 972-420-6560.