Horses to be returned to owner accused of abusing them

Horses seized from a property owner accused of mistreating the animals will be returned.

Over the past several months, the Bayfield County Sheriff’s Office, in conjunction with the Bayfield County humane officer, have investigated a complaint regarding suspected neglect of several horses in the town of Bell.

Authorities gathered evidence to further investigate the conditions and treatment of the horses at the site. More than 15 horses were eventually seized, according to a release from the sheriff’s office sent Wednesday afternoon.

The seized horses were examined with the assistance of several trained veterinarians.

Throughout this process, the owner of the animals has been cooperative and committed to ensuring all animals are properly cared for, the release stated.

Due to conflicting medical examinations by veterinarians, and after consulting with the District Attorney’s office, authorities concluded there is insufficient evidence to support a referral for criminal prosecution.

As a result, the seized animals are being returned to the owner in the coming days.

“The health and well-being of animals, together with serving the constitutional rights of all citizens, remain a top priority for the sheriff's office,” said Chief Deputy Andy Runice in the release. “The Sheriff’s Office understands that animal investigations face heightened public scrutiny. Nonetheless, the investigation and referral of potential prosecutable cases will always be conducted with the same diligence, based on the collected evidence.”

He declined to answer any follow-up questions.

More details will be released as they are provided.