FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

For more information contact:
Bill Clary

(502) 564-4696

ROWAN MAN CHARGED IN INVESTIGATION OF DEAD HORSES

FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky Department of Agriculture has filed charges against the owner of a Rowan County farm where state and local authorities found 31 dead horses on Tuesday.

Don Miller is charged with violating state law regarding the disposition of animal carcasses. Investigators with the Rowan County Sheriff’s Department and the KDA’s Division of Animal Health found 11 dead horses in a barn on the property and 20 more in a pasture. Ten horses were found alive but in poor health in the barn. Another 14 living horses were found outside the barn and are in good condition.

KRS 257.160 dictates how animal carcasses are to be disposed of. The first offense is punishable by a fine of $100-$500. Subsequent offenses are punishable by fines of $500-$1,000, up to 30 days in jail or both fines and jail time.

The living horses remain on Miller’s property under the care of a representative of the Lewis County Humane Society. The carcasses are being buried on the site.

The Kentucky Department of Agriculture was notified of the situation on the farm and called the local sheriff’s office in to assist with the investigation.

The Rowan County Sheriff’s Department and the KDA are continuing to investigate.

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