Denton Criminal Lawyer

Cockfighting

As in many states in the U.S.A., in Texas, cockfighting has a long history and a dedicated following. Also like in every other state, though, cockfighting is illegal in Texas. As a whole, the state considers cockfighting to be cruel. As consideration given to animals’ welfare has increased over the years, more and more people have begun to see cockfighting for what it is: a cruel activity that puts chickens and roosters in unnatural conditions of cruelty.

In terms of their strength, Texas’s cockfighting laws are not the strongest in the nation, but they are not the weakest either. According to the Humane Society of the United States, Texas cockfighting laws are 34th in the nation with regards to their strength. In Texas, cockfighting is a felony crime. People convicted of cockfighting face anywhere from 180 days to 2 years in prison. Additionally, they face up to $10,000 in fines.

While cockfighting itself is a crime, other acts associated with cockfighting are not crimes. Specifically, possessing birds for the purposes of cockfighting is legal in Texas. So is being a spectator at a cockfight and also possessing tools and implements meant for cockfighting.

One of the problems associated with cockfighting is that it often attracts other illegal behavior as well, such as gambling and illegal exchange of firearms. As a result, there is a lot of money involved.

Because of the cruelty of cockfighting and the other illegal activities associated with it, law enforcement authorities are tough on those found to be participating in this activity.

Speak with a Denton Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you have been charged with cockfighting, the criminal penalties you face are very severe. For help in fighting your charges, you will need a strong legal team. For more information, contact the Denton criminal lawyer of Alexander & Associates by calling 972-420-6560.