Six Law Enforcement Officers Charged in Illegal Horse Track Scheme

Crosby, Texas

When investigators raided the Rancho El Herradero Training Center, after learning it was a front for illegal horse racing and gambling, they turned-up more than they bargained for.

The investigation and raid led to the arrest of nine people, including six law enforcement officers. The officers have been charged with racing without a license.

Authorities said they spent 11 months investigating the property and say the track hired off duty cops to provide security; those officers are accused of looking the other way when illegal gambling was going on.

The Harris County District Attorney's office said the officers arrested include Harris County Pct. 1 deputy constables Secar Guadelupe Rangel and Joel Garcia, DPS State Trooper Richard Rene Rivera, reserve Fort Bend County Pct. 2 deputy constables David Green and Edward Scott and reserve Maverick County Sheriff's Office deputy Carlos Garza.

They also arrested three civilians -- Reginaldo Mandujano, Diana Marie Salinas and Consuelo Rivera.

Harris County Pct. 1 Constable Alan Rosen said he fired the two deputies from his agency the minute they were arrested.

"I don't tolerate crime on the street and I don't tolerate it in my office," said Rosen.

The nine suspects, including the six law enforcement officers, are expected to appear in the 338th state District Court Monday morning.