Galveston County gambling investigation leads to Hitchcock mayor’s arrest

A major crackdown on illegal gambling in Hitchcock, Texas, has led to 33 arrests, the seizure of hundreds of gaming machines and the arrest of the city’s acting mayor after investigators uncovered what authorities described as an organized crime operation spread across the city.

Investigators with the Galveston County Organized Crime Task Force executed 21 search warrants in Hitchcock on February 18th. The coordinated effort involved numerous alleged game halls and in particular City Hall. According to the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office, the investigation began after officials received numerous complaints from residents about illegal gambling establishments operating in the city.

In an earlier statement shared by the sheriff’s office on Facebook, officials said the warrants were executed « on February 18, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. » and were part of an « extensive investigation into illegal gambling operations. » Authorities added that deputies served warrants « at 20 separate locations believed to be operating illegal gambling establishments. »

The town hall was among the properties searched. The sheriff’s office explained that the city of Hitchcock was included « because of its regulatory responsibilities involving permits, employee records and inspections related to these businesses. » Residents were told to expect « an increased law enforcement presence in the area, including personnel from the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office and multiple assisting agencies. »

Officials also urged caution during the operation, asking the public to « avoid areas of active operations » and warning people not to cross police lines or obstruct investigators.

The Sheriff’s Office later announced that the operation resulted in 33 arrests, the seizure of 749 gaming machines and the seizure of more than $417,000 in cash believed to be related to illegal gambling activity.

After the searches were over, law enforcement arrested Hitchcock Mayor Chris Armacost. Jail records identify him as Christopher Armacost, 44. He is charged with « Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (FS), » a felony. Authorities emphasized that « the individual pictured here has been arrested but not convicted at the time of this publication. This information does not suggest or imply guilt for any actions or activities other than their arrest. »

According to the sheriff’s office, investigators determined that one of the gambling establishments targeted by the operation, Comfort Zone Washateria, was owned and operated by Armacost.

The city of Hitchcock is handling the gambling investigation after the mayor’s arrest

The city of Hitchcock addressed the situation in an official statement Thursday (Feb. 19). City officials confirmed they were aware of the law enforcement activity, including the search of City Hall.

« The City of Hitchcock is cooperating fully with the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office and the Galveston County Organized Crime Task Force as they conduct their investigation into illegal gambling operations, » the statement said.

City Manager Marie Gelles said staff members are turning over documents and making their employees available to investigators. « Our administration is committed to full transparency and providing investigators with all requested access to permit records, inspection reports and personnel files to ensure a thorough and speedy resolution, » Gelles said.

She stated, « The city takes these allegations very seriously. We are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and public trust. We will continue to assist law enforcement in any way possible while ensuring that essential city services remain uninterrupted for our residents. »

As for the mayor’s case, the city said it has little more to share for now. « As this is an active criminal case, the city is unable to provide further comment on specific details of the case at this time, » the statement added.

Armacost serves as the elected mayor of Hitchcock, presiding over council meetings and acting as the city’s chief elected representative. City officials said they were reviewing « all legal and administrative records » related to the matter.

The Sheriff’s Office said detectives are continuing to review evidence seized during the operation, including documents taken from City Hall, and warned that additional arrests are possible as the investigation progresses.

ReadWrite contacted Armacost’s attorney, Nicholas Poehl, who confirmed that Armacost’s first court appearance is scheduled for March 20.

In a statement provided to ReadWrite, Armacost said it intends to fight the allegations in court, not in the media.

« Some of the most important rights granted to Americans by the Constitution are the presumption of innocence and the right to face your accusers in court, » Armacost said. He added that he was charged « as a private citizen and business owner » and said neither his role as mayor nor his work with the Hitchcock Independent School District was involved.

« This case will be resolved in court as is proper and proper, » he said.

The Galveston County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation is ongoing and reaffirmed its commitment to cracking down on illegal gambling operations and organized crime throughout the county.

UPDATED: Additional information from the statement of Nicholas Pole and Christopher Armacost added on February 20, 2026. The latest press release from the Galveston County Sheriff’s Office has also been added.

Featured Image: Galveston County Consortium