Volunteers spent two days rescuing dozens of horses and animals at the center of an animal abuse investigation in California, where dozens of dead or malnourished horses were discovered. According to the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office, 90 horses, five donkeys, and three alpacas were rescued while 53 horses, one cow, and one dog were found dead. Thirteen horses, one donkey, and one bull had to be put down. The numbers are subject to change as the investigation is still ongoing.
Chantel Tieman from animal charity Hold Your Horses Livestock Evacuation and Rescue stated that this case of animal abuse is one of the worst they have seen, with no excuse for the mistreatment of the animals. Volunteers worked with the sheriff’s office to rescue 47 horses from the main property, taking them to Oakdale Equine Rescue for care. The surviving animals are being treated by the rescue as the legal process continues.
The investigation into the animal abuse case began when law enforcement officials responded to a report of a rooster fight at one of Jan Johnson’s properties near Clements. Johnson, who is facing multiple charges including cruelty to an animal, was not associated with the rooster fight but was the owner of the property where the incident occurred. Authorities found dead horses and other animals on her properties, leading to her arrest. Volunteers are now caring for the abused animals and working to nurse them back to health with community support.
