Sheriff's Office Busts Cockfighting Event in St. Landry Parish

Over 60 people detained, one man arrested on multiple charges

Mar. 13, 2026 at 3:23pm

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The St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office conducted a raid on a major cockfighting event in the parish, detaining around 60 people and arresting one man, John Eddie Lachapelle, on charges of cockfighting, possession of Schedule II controlled substances, and illegal weapons possession.

Why it matters

Cockfighting is a felony offense in Louisiana, and the raid highlights law enforcement's efforts to crack down on this illegal blood sport that is often tied to other criminal activities. The incident sheds light on the ongoing problem of underground cockfighting events in rural parts of the state.

The details

During the raid, authorities detained approximately 60 people and arrested 36-year-old John Eddie Lachapelle of Opelousas on charges of cockfighting, possession of Schedule II controlled substances, and illegal weapons possession. Lachapelle was allegedly involved in organizing and hosting the cockfighting event.

  • The raid took place on Saturday, March 13, 2026.

The players

St. Landry Parish Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that conducted the raid on the cockfighting event.

John Eddie Lachapelle

A 36-year-old Opelousas resident who was arrested and charged with cockfighting, drug possession, and illegal weapons possession in relation to the cockfighting event.

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What’s next

Lachapelle will appear before a judge to determine if he will be granted bail as the investigation into the cockfighting event continues.

The takeaway

This raid demonstrates law enforcement's ongoing efforts to crack down on the illegal and inhumane practice of cockfighting in Louisiana, which is often linked to other criminal activities. The incident highlights the need for continued vigilance and enforcement to stamp out this form of animal cruelty.