Animal Services Officers Seize Horses in Cabazon

Riverside County Animal Services served a search warrant at a property in Cabazon today (Aug. 14) and seized five horses and other animals.

The horses were in an emaciated state. Their ribs, hip point and spines were very prominent. All the animals were loaded and transported to the Western Riverside County/City Animal Shelter in Jurupa Valley to be assessed by staff veterinarians.

The investigation at the property in the 50000 block of Esperanza Avenue started in late July after Animal Services received a complaint from a fellow county employee at Code Enforcement. The Code Enforcement officer contacted Animal Services and shared information about underweight horses.

Animal Services officers visited the property on July 23 and witnessed the malnourished animals. The owner told the officers he was going through tough times and trying to feed the horses what he was able.

The owner was told that Animal Services could find a rescue organization to assist, and the owner said he would think about it. Some of the horses did not have water and temperatures climbed above 100 degrees on July 23. The officer mandated the horses get water and observed the watering prior to leaving.

Animal Services returned two days later and the condition of the horses remained poor. Again, the owner was offered assistance to rehome the emaciated horses. He declined. Animal Services Lt. Lesley Huennekens informed the owner that the situation could result in felony animal cruelty.

Animal Services Officer Lupe Villa, who led the investigation, today arrested the owner Rafael Leal (DOB 10-24-1965).

Animal control officers have the power to arrest cruelty suspects but rely on the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office to assist with the search warrant and transport. Multiple deputies assisted with today’s case.

“When we get complaints, it is our duty to respond,” Animal Services Director Erin Gettis said. “This is an example of partnerships with fellow county agencies and great follow through by our officers. It’s a shame to let horses get to this state – and we look forward to nursing them back to a much healthier weight.”

Today’s search and seizure investigation will be turned over to the Riverside County District Attorney’s office for review.

Officers also impounded four dogs and six puppies and 45 birds, mostly hens and roosters. The officers could not locate any food for the birds, nor a water source for them.

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