The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office arrested a woman in Clements, California, on Wednesday after discovering “approximately 27 deceased horses” on her multiple properties while executing a search warrant.
The woman, Jan Johnson, was charged with cruelty to an animal, threatening a public official, criminal threats and possession of a short-barrel shotgun. She was booked at the San Joaquin County Jail, but a local inmate search site indicated that she was also released on Wednesday.
The police had been conducting the search as part of an animal neglect investigation. Animal Services Officers and veterinarians were also at the scene evaluating the animals.
In a statement, the sheriff’s office said that the animals living on the properties had limited access to food and water. Sixteen horses so far have been rescued, but four other horses and one bull have been euthanized “due to their extreme neglect,” the statement added. The animals rescued so far have been taken to the Oakdale Equine Rescue in Oakdale, California, according to the authorities.
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“Animal services officers and veterinarians are still currently evaluating additional horses and animals due to the size of the property,” the sheriff’s office continued. “We are committed to protecting the welfare of all animals in our community and will continue to investigate this matter.”