Authorities are investigating the mysterious abuse of horses in Rockland County.A woman says someone is cutting her horses, literally carving their hides with a sharp instrument. The woman lives in the village of Pomona.
There have been a number of attacks on these horses, both direct and indirect. The owner has collected many items that have been thrown near the horses, designed to have the horses run over them and injure themselves. But far more disturbing are the knife attacks.
"It's like finding your child, that someone has absolutely taken a knife to and maliciously cut them up," horse owner Joni Challenor said.
She calls them her babies. Four Arabian horses, owned by Challenor. They are strong, graceful animals that have somehow been injured.
Challenor claims someone has been mutilating the horses. A year ago, she found one with a large gash to its face.
Then, over the last few weeks, she says there have been at least a half dozen incidents. In one, it appears as if initials were carved into the animal's flesh.
"I think it's one of the most malicious ways to get back at somebody or to encourage them to have to abandon their beautiful and beloved horse farm," she said.
State police are investigating and Challenor says she paid for private security for awhile. Then, she installed video cameras that she says were soon vandalized.
A representative from the New York Horse Council has reviewed the injuries and determined the horses are well cared for and could not have injured themselves in their stalls.
Just this morning, Challenor found a new wound on Shadow, a gray Spottet Arabian that had the initials carved into him.
Challenor says she suspects someone may be trying to pressure her to sell her farm. She owns nearly three acres of valuable property in Pomona, which is a rapidly expanding village in Rockland County.
"I'm definitely someone who is firmly planted here," she said. "I grew up with horses, my job is based in the city, it's just a scoot to the city. I definitely look like someone who isn't going anywhere anytime soon."
Challenor has offered a $1,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the person or persons responsible.
Horses Attack New York
Horses Attack New York