Horses Stolen and Brutally Butchered for Meat in Florida

Since January, nearly 20 horses have been stolen and brutally killed in Florida. The latest horse was stabbed in the neck and most likely still alive when butchered.

Officials believe the mutilated horses are being killed for their meat which is being sold on the black market. Buying or selling horse meat is illegal in South Florida, according to Crime Stoppers. The killings, which are occurring in and around the Miami area, are leaving owners heartbroken and devastated at the loss and senseless brutality of their beloved horses.

Killings:

• An American quarter horse, Bonita,  was found dead in her stable. Her front legs and portions of her rump had been hacked off probably while she was still alive.  Sadly, the beautiful mare was killed right in front of her 2-month-old foal.  When Bonita was discovered, the foal was found trying to suckle from the remains. 
• Geronimo, a beloved painted quarter horse, was stolen from his pasture in February and found on March 5th in a field.  The horse was tied to a tree and slaughtered. A $2,500 reward has been offered for the arrest and conviction of those responsible.
• Another victim was stabbed in the neck and probably still alive when parts of its chest and legs were hacked off.  The horse was then lit on fire.

Warning: Disturbing Video:

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/v/iGbvLjz2CnA&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6]

How to Help

Most killings have occurred during the weekends in remote and rural locations.  Officials are asking for help and urging people in the area to contact the local police agency or SPCA in case of any suspicious activity. 

In order to raise money and awareness, a community rally is being held on August 1st at 7:00 P.M. at the Homestead Rodeo Arena. 

If anyone has any information regarding these incidents, please contact the Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers  or call 305-471-TIPS.  A $1,000 reward is being offered for tips leading to the arrest of the crimes.

Update: A Citizens Crime Watch meeting will be held August 19, 2009, at 7:00 P.M.

 
Mountain Pony photo via Tim Ball on StockXChng.

Other horse photos via TayoHorse3 on StockXChng.