A woman in California was arrested on Wednesday after authorities discovered 27 dead horses across multiple properties, police said.
Jan Johnson of Clements, California, was arrested and booked into the San Joaquin county jail on multiple charges, officials said, including cruelty to an animal, threatening a public official, criminal threats, and possession of a short-barrel shotgun.
Deputies from the San Joaquin county sheriff’s office along with animal services officers made the discovery on Wednesday while executing a search warrant in Clements, which is about 40 miles (64km) from Sacramento.
The operation was part of an ongoing investigation into animal neglect, according to a statement from the sheriff’s office.
Officials said that multiple properties were searched and that during the operation, they discovered “several malnourished horses” on the premises with “limited access to any food or water” as well as “approximately 27 deceased horses”.
The animal services officers, accompanied by veterinarians present at the scene, immediately began to assess and evaluate the condition of the horses, officials said.
“After thorough assessments, 16 horses were rescued and are now in the care of professionals at the Oakdale Equine Rescue who will ensure they receive proper nutrition, medical attention, and rehabilitation,” authorities stated.
Officials added that, “unfortunately, four horses and one bull had to be euthanized due to their extreme neglect. Animal services officers and veterinarians are still currently evaluating additional horses and animals due to the size of the property.”
Officials said that they are “committed to protecting the welfare of all animals in our community and will continue to investigate this matter”.
