"All this over a horse," complains Joseph Morris
LOUISIANA -- A 37-year-old man was arrested on animal cruelty charges after authorities determined he was not properly caring for his five horses.
Joseph Morris of Amite was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Prison on one count of aggravated cruelty to animals and four counts of simple cruelty to animals.
The Tangi Humane Society reported one of the horses will not survive.
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office said it received a complaint Saturday about the condition of the animals.
Sheriff Daniel Edwards said responding deputies found Morris had severely neglected the horses, causing them harm and suffering.
Deputies said he did not give any of the horses the necessary food, shelter or veterinary care. They added the pasture where the horses were kept was muddy, had little grass and there was no hay or feed.
Investigators claimed the lack of concern was obvious based on the condition of the horses, the property and one particular statement by the suspect.
"All this over a horse," Joseph reportedly said to deputies during the investigation.
TPSO said Morris admitted he knew the sickest of the horses was malnourished and ill before the humane society evaluated its condition, but did not try to get vet care for it.
All of the horses were removed from the property.
Authorities did not provide bond information.
(WAFB - Jan 16, 2013)
