"Investigators with the Galveston County Organized Crime Task Force carried out 21 search warrants in Hitchcock on Feb. 18. The coordinated effort included multiple suspected game rooms and, notably, City Hall. In a statement shared by the Galveston County 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 unlawful gambling establishments.""
"After the searches wrapped up, law enforcement took Hitchcock Mayor Chris Armacost into custody. Jail records identify him as Christopher Armacost, 44. He is charged with "Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (FS)," a felony offense. Authorities stressed that "the individual depicted here has been arrested but not convicted at the time of this posting. This information does not infer or imply guilt of any actions or activity other than their arrest.""
Galveston County Organized Crime Task Force executed 21 search warrants across Hitchcock on Feb. 18, targeting suspected game rooms and other unlawful gambling sites, including City Hall. The Galveston County Sheriff's Office said the warrants were executed at 3:00 p.m. and involved actions at 20 locations believed to be operating unlawful gambling establishments. City Hall was searched because of regulatory responsibilities for permitting, employee records, and inspections related to these businesses. Residents were warned to avoid active operation areas and not to cross police lines. Hitchcock Mayor Chris Armacost, 44, was arrested and charged with Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (FS), a felony.
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