Investigators told ABC Action News that until Tuesday they didn't have clear evidence of abuse. They had gone to the property in Myakka City several times, but the horses were in good shape. After a recent tip to the Sheriff's Office, however, deputies went back and that's when they discovered the animals needed help right away.
"We use a scale of 1 to 5. They were a 2, not doing well. They were very thin and malnourished," says Dave Bristow, spokesperson for the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
The horses were living on this 13.5-acre farm owned by Alan and Sheree Napier, according to records with the Manatee County Property Appraiser. The Napiers were found guilty of eight counts of animal cruelty this year.
Five horses in all were seized from the property along Wingate Road in Myakka City. Deputies responded after various complaints.
When ABC Action News showed neighbor Tom Gilchrist pictures of the animals he was clearly disturbed. He said it's a problem that's gone on for far too long.
"Makes me sick, makes me sick. I'm not kidding you. They're doing more harm than good, because they got too many that they can't take care of," Gilchrist said.
Property owners Heather and Rico Morin didn't answer when ABC Action News went looking for answers Wednesday. Deputies say they claim money troubles are the root of the problem.
"What we were told is that they just didn't have the means to properly care for these horses," said Dave Bristow of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office.
Turns out the couple shares a connection to another disturbing case of animal cruelty in Manatee County. The Sheriff's Office told ABC Action News Heather Morin's parents are Alan and Sheree Napier.
Back in 2014 the couple's animal sanctuary was raided. More than 300 animals were seized. Both were later found guilty of abuse and sentenced to time behind bars.
At this point the horses are being held on the property of the Manatee County Sheriff's Office farm until they are nursed back to health.
Animal cruelty charges against Heather and Rico Morin are pending while the Manatee County Sheriff's Office and State Attorney's Office finishes their investigation.
Sheree Napier is out of jail and serving three years probation. Her husband, Alan, is serving a three years at a state prison followed by four years probation.
(ABC Action News - Dec 23, 2015)
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