- Florida, USA -
On Wednesday, August 31, 2022, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office received an anonymous call reporting that two horses had been starving at a property in the 16600 block of the southwest 42nd Loop.
Responding deputies found an 8-year-old Chestnut Quarter Horse mare named Cinnamon and an 18-year-old Old Bay Thoroughbred mare named Broadway, who were severely malnourished.
In a press release, the sheriff’s office said that Corporal Struble, Corporal James Manning, and Marion County Animal Control responded to the scene to conduct an investigation from which it emerged that 24-years-old MERCEDEES LYNN COX and 27-years-old TYLER JAMES WILLIAM HANNERS (both pictured), had bought Cinnamon and Broadway in June 2022.
Since then, Cinnamon and Broadway have lost a significant amount of weight.
Cinnamon and Broadway were in such visibly poor body condition that a veterinary with the Peterson Smith Equine Hospital was called in.
According to the press release, “Broadway was found to have a displaced colon, colic from ingesting sand, and a body condition score of one, which indicates she was emaciated. Due to the severity of Broadway’s condition, the veterinarian recommended medical euthanasia to prevent further suffering. Cinnamon was diagnosed with a heart murmur, heaves, rain rot, and a body condition score of two. With a proper medication and feeding regimen, Cinnamon is expected to make a full recovery.”
The sheriff’s office said that COX “continually insisted that the horses received adequate feedings despite the fact that both of the horses were visibly malnourished.”
The investigation determined that COX and HANNERS failed to provide adequate food, water, and medical care for Broadway and Cinnamon.
COX was arrested on September 1, 2022, and booked into the Marion County Jail on two felony counts of aggravated animal cruelty. She was released the following day after posting a $2,000 bond.
HANNERS turned himself in on September 6, 2022, and he was also charged with two felony counts of aggravated animal cruelty. He was released the following day after he was able to post a $2,000 bond.
Voice For Us Disclaimer: This story is sourced from official news outlets. Links included.
Details may be removed or additional information may be provided in future should such sources report an update.
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office kindly provided Voice For Us with a picture of Broadway and a picture of Cinnamon.
#animalcruelty #animalslivesmatter #deathpenaltyforanimalabusers #deadmare #neglectedhorses #malnourishedhorses #ocala #marioncounty #florida
Additional Sources: