Illegal Cockfighting Takes Place in Northeast Houston

(February 19, 2024)

Houston SPCA and Harris County Constable Precinct 1 were called to the scene on Sunday afternoon for a suspected cockfight in progress in northeast Houston near the 13,000 block of Millsite Road where they found 111 roosters, including eight deceased.

All live animals were brought into the care of the Houston SPCA and are receiving individualized treatment by their veterinary team, including those animals who have come in with injuries.  There will be a hearing scheduled next week where evidence will be presented, and a judge will determine custody of the animals. 

The property owner, Robert Canesco, has been charged with a Class B misdemeanor as he provided the property for the use of cockfighting.  The case is still under investigation.  

Cockfighting is a felony in Texas whether to cause birds to fight with one another and/or use a property for the purpose of cockfighting. It is punishable by up to two years in prison and/or up to a $10,000 fine.