Galveston County Sheriff's Office said it executed 21 search warrants at 20 different locations around Hitchcock, where they said they believe illegal gambling was happening. Deputies said a search warrant was also served at Hitchcock City Hall, which oversees permitting and inspections for those businesses.
According to records, Armacost is charged with engaging in organized criminal activity.
Documents obtained by ABC13 reveal more details about Armacost's arrest.
Documents show deputies received an illegal gambling tip about the Comfort Zone Washateria on Wednesday. They went that day and saw five eight-liner machines.
Deputies said they put in $20 into two machines. They ended up with about 40 and 70 credits, and printed a ticket showing those amounts.
Documents show that when they approached an attendant, she handed them that cash amount.
The next day, deputies returned with warrants.
Documents reveal the attendant told them the mayor owns the business and was aware of the illegal gambling. Deputies said she showed text messages between her and Armacost discussing the games.
In addition to serving as mayor, Armacost also serves as assistant superintendent at Hitchcock ISD, according to the district's website.
When ABC13 reached out to the school district for a statement, they sent the following:
"Hitchcock ISD is aware of the recent arrest of Chris Armacost. He remains an employee of the district as we are reviewing all applicable information. Due to this being a personnel-related matter, the district cannot provide further comment."
Law enforcement was also seen at the Comfort Zone Washateria on Main Street, which, according to the secretary of state's office, is owned by Armacost Investments LLC.
Eyewitness News has called and emailed Mayor Armacost, but so far, he has not responded.
Nicholas Poehl is listed as Armacost's attorney. ABC13 reached out to Poehl, who said he was just assigned and asked for at least a day to respond.
The City of Hitchcock issued the following statement on the situation:
The City of Hitchcock is aware of the law enforcement activity that occurred on February 18, 2026, involving the execution of search warrants at several locations within the city, including City Hall. The City of Hitchcock is fully cooperating with the Galveston County Sheriff's Office and the Galveston County Organized Crime Task Force as they conduct their investigation into illegal gambling operations.
Our administration is committed to complete transparency and is providing investigators with all requested access to permitting records, inspection reports, and personnel files to ensure a thorough and swift resolution.
"The City takes these allegations very seriously," said Marie Gelles, City Manager. "We are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and public trust. We will continue to assist law enforcement in every way possible while ensuring that essential city services remain uninterrupted for our residents."
Regarding the arrest of Mayor Chris Armacost, the City is currently reviewing all legal and administrative protocols. As this is an active criminal matter, the City cannot provide further comment on specific details of the case at this time. We remain focused on our mission to serve the people of Hitchcock and will provide updates as more information becomes available through the proper legal channels.
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