WEATHERFORD, Texas — A north central Parker County property described as an elaborate cockfighting operation led to the seizure of hundreds of birds and the arrest of a suspect on multiple felony charges, according to the Parker County Sheriff’s Office.
Animal Control officers initially responded on March 23, 2026, for a welfare check and discovered what investigators say was a large-scale facility used to train and condition roosters for cockfighting. Authorities said the birds showed signs of severe abuse and mutilation.
According to officials, officers found deceased and partially burned chicken carcasses in a burn barrel, along with multiple injured birds displaying wounds consistent with cockfighting. Investigators later executed an animal seizure warrant and uncovered evidence of what they described as torture, including birds that had been “live plucked,” with feathers forcibly removed from their bodies.
Authorities also reported that several birds had their natural leg spurs cut excessively short, a practice used to attach metal gaffs or blades during fights to increase lethality. Investigators located more than 200 coops on the property, many containing dead birds, as well as transport containers holding individual animals.
Inside a structure on the property, officials found a training area equipped with rooster decoys and other tools used to prepare birds for fighting. Investigators also recovered bottles of injectable steroids and antibiotics, along with wing tags.
During the initial investigation, 28 roosters and 14 hens were seized and evaluated by a veterinarian, who determined the animals had suffered cruel and unnecessary treatment. Authorities later returned to the property on April 2 and, with assistance from a Fort Worth-based animal response group, seized an additional 359 birds.
The animals were transported to the Weatherford Animal Shelter, where they are receiving care while awaiting further disposition.
Following the investigation, arrest warrants were issued for 44-year-old Ernesto Rocha Ramirez on charges of Cockfighting and Cruelty to Livestock, both felonies. He was arrested without incident on March 31 and is currently being held in the Parker County Jail without bond.
Authorities also determined Ramirez is in the United States illegally, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has placed a detainer on him pending a deportation hearing.
Sheriff Russ Authier said the county takes animal cruelty cases seriously and will continue to pursue those responsible.
The investigation remains ongoing.
