A man was detained after 100 livestock animals were discovered neglected, according to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
Detectives identified the suspect as Santos Gordillo Torres, who is 61 years old.
On July 26, deputies arrived at the 13500 block of Chicken Ranch Road in San Elizario to help the El Paso County Animal Welfare Unit with an animal abuse investigation.
As the investigation advanced, numerous animals in need of immediate veterinary care were voluntarily surrendered, according to the sheriff’s office.
Additional animals exhibiting signs of serious mistreatment were noted by detectives, including malnutrition, a lack of sufficient food and water, untreated medical issues, and dirty living circumstances.
Investigators discovered further mistreated animals on a neighboring property.
Detectives obtained search warrants for both locations, and roughly 100 livestock animals, including horses, donkeys, pigs, goats, chickens, roosters, and peacocks, were rescued and taken to Gracey’s Rescue Ranch for treatment.
On July 30, 2026, investigators acquired four arrest warrants for Torres, each with a $15,000 bond, totaling $60,000.
Torres was arrested for four counts of animal cruelty on Friday, July 31.
Following a civil hearing, the court granted 69 of the rescued animals to Gracey’s Rescue Ranch for further treatment and rehabilitation.
The final disposition of the remaining animals is still pending.
The inquiry continues, and new criminal charges are expected.
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