Press Release: March 9, 2026
ARRESTED:
John Eddie Lachapelle, 36 years old
854 Raiders Road
Opelousas, LA 70570
CHARGES:
Cockfighting (Felony)
Possession of Schedule II CDS (Felony)
Illegal Carrying of Weapons; Crime or CDS
(Felony)
Sheriff Bobby J. Guidroz reports, “On March 7, 2026, Investigative personnel acted upon an
anonymous tip of a major cockfighting event being held on the property of 854 Raiders Road,
northwest of Opelousas, LA. Utilizing covert surveillance assets, it was determined that a large
gathering of persons transporting fighting roosters was actively taking place.” Sheriff Guidroz
continues, “I gathered together elements of our entire Investigative Division, from CID, to
Narcotics, Juvenile Detectives and Sex Offender Detectives to provide sufficient manpower to
handle the large gathering. Our Evidence Staff were on scene to document and gather evidence
as it was found. A search warrant was obtained to search the grounds, vehicles and home. In
all, some 60 persons were detained, 70 fighting roosters were seized, along with cash, drugs and
guns.” Sheriff Guidroz concludes, “As the property owner and principal organizer of the
cockfight event, John Eddie Lachapelle was arrested at the scene. The others present were
identified, with possible criminal action pending. This investigation is still ongoing. I hope this
sends a clear message to everyone; cockfighting is illegal in St. Landry Parish and the State of
Louisiana. Those who choose to violate this, or any other law in this parish, you will be
investigated and appropriate charges will be filed.”
Anyone with additional information about this crime is encouraged to call the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office
at 337-948-6516. You may also call Crime Stoppers at 337-948-TIPS, download the P3 app on your mobile
device or simply dial **TIPS on your mobile phone to tip. All calls are anonymous and you can earn a cash
reward for information leading to an arrest.
This is Sheriff Bobby J. Guidroz. All persons are presumed innocent
until proven guilty in a court of law.
