14 Arrested in Texas Following PETA Investigation into Horse Abuse and Illegal Gambling

Law enforcement in Texas has recently apprehended 14 individuals following a significant crackdown on Carril Mochomos, an unscrupulous quarter horse racing venue located in Levelland. This operation, which took place on September 29, 2024, concludes a meticulous investigation initiated by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), who flagged the venue for rampant horse mistreatment and illegal gambling activities. PETA’s concerns are part of a larger issue, as the organization has highlighted unregulated “bush tracks” operating throughout the state, including Carril Mochomos. These operations frequently involve severe animal abuse, such as drugging horses with stimulants and using physical abuse like whipping and electroshock to enhance their racing performance.

Earlier this year, PETA submitted a formal complaint to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), revealing over 50 such tracks functioning within Texas. The investigation uncovered these tracks as hubs for unlawful activities, including doping horses and subjecting them to harsh practices. These unethical races involve substantial financial stakes, with bettors frequently wagering hundreds of thousands of dollars. During the raid, law enforcement officials discovered 135 grams of cocaine, numerous gambling devices, and large sums of cash. Additionally, they found illegal drugs meant for both horses and humans, as well as electric shock devices used to push the horses beyond their physical limits. The Texas Racing Commission (TXRC), which participated in the raid, pointed out that these bush tracks endanger the well-being of the horses and tarnish the reputation of legalized horse racing within the state.