Published on: February 20, 2026, 01:55h.
Updated on: February 20, 2026, 01:55h.
- Hitchcock’s mayor arrested in illegal gambling investigation
- Undercover deputies exchanged machine credits for cash
- Mayor also holds a position as assistant superintendent at Hitchcock ISD
The mayor of Hitchcock, a small city situated in Galveston County, Texas, was apprehended and charged with participating in organized criminal activities on Wednesday, following the discovery of illegal gambling machines at a laundromat he owns.
Mayor Christopher Armacost’s establishment, “Comfort Zone Washeteria,” was among 20 locations targeted in a raid conducted by the Galveston County Sheriff’s Department earlier on Wednesday. As reported by ABC News13 Houston, deputies were also seen at another location of Comfort Zone, which is also owned by the mayor.
Undercover deputies posed as customers and visited the initial location a day prior to the raids, inserting $20 into two “eight-liner” machines, as outlined in court documents.
Understanding the 8-Liner Machines in Texas
8-liners are video slot machines typically found in Texas game rooms, allowing players to bet on eight paylines and receive credits that can be exchanged for cash or prizes. While marketed as “amusement devices,” courts have positioned them increasingly as illegal gambling devices.
After using the machines, the undercover deputies amassed 40 and 70 credits reflected on a printed ticket, which they later exchanged for cash, according to court documentation.
In 2022, the Second Court of Appeals in Fort Worth determined that eight-liners fulfill the criteria of an illegal “lottery” under the Texas Constitution — namely chance, consideration, and prize — regardless of whether the prizes are cash, credits, or merchandise.
The Sheriff’s Office claims to have text message evidence showing Armacost discussing the operation of these machines with an employee.
Mayor’s Role in Education
In addition to his role as mayor, Armacost serves as an assistant superintendent for the Hitchcock Independent School District (Hitchcock ISD). The district acknowledged its awareness of the situation involving Armacost’s arrest, stating they are “looking into all relevant information,” but opted not to comment further on this “personnel-related issue.”
The City of Hitchcock is committed to cooperating fully in the ongoing investigation and emphasized its dedication to transparency by providing investigators with requested documents, including permitting records, inspection reports, and personnel files for a thorough and prompt resolution.
“The City is taking these allegations very seriously,” remarked City Manager Marie Gelles. “We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity and public trust… Concerning Mayor Chris Armacost’s arrest, the City is currently reviewing all legal and administrative protocols.”
Gelles chose not to elaborate on specific aspects related to “this active criminal case.”