Ripley County Sheriff’s Office deputies worked closely with People Assisting Animals In Need and Indiana Horse Rescue volunteers most of the day March 17 rescuing numerous horses from a rural Osgood property, said Sheriff Tom Grills.
“The horses became severely malnourished and neglected when their owners moved away from the residence and abandoned the animals,” he reported.
Deputy Steve Sullivan was called to the residence March 16 after witnesses reported they observed at least one dead horse. When he and concerned citizens investigated further, “they were appalled to find a mare and its partially born fetus lay dead in an open field.” The pair apparently died due to birthing complications.
After an on-site evaluation by a certified equine abuse investigator, the remaining animals – a stud horse, two yearlings, two donkeys and three mares, also believed to be impregnated – were seized in according with Indiana Code 35-46-3-7, cruelty to an animal.
Grills said, “The animals were taken to an undisclosed location where a licensed veterinarian will further evaluate them and their food intake (will be) closely monitored.”
PAAIN volunteers initially offered assistance to the suspects in December 2009 when seven dogs and three puppies were discovered there. “After several unsuccessful attempts to contact the owners for voluntary surrender, the dogs were seized and at least one ... had to be euthanized. The remaining dogs and puppies were nourished back to health and successfully placed with caring and loving families,” according to the sheriff.
Grills withheld the suspects’ names due to the ongoing investigation by Sullivan and Maj. David Pippin and pending review by the Ripley County Prosecutor’s Office for criminal charges.
Any citizens who have knowledge of similar neglect, abandonment or cruelty to animals are urged to contact RCSO by e-mailing Sheriff@ripleycounty.com or calling 812-689-5555. Witnesses can remain anonymous.
