17 Horses Seized From Molalla Residence

Virginia Winter Photo Courtesy: Clackamas Sheriff

(Molalla) - Clackamas County deputies seized 17 horses from a residence in Molalla Wednesday, after serving a search warrant at 37390 S. Appleman Rd. This is the same residence where an 8-month-old horse was seized during the execution of a search warrant in February 2005. The deputies were assisted by members of the Oregon Humane Society and several volunteers.

Detective Wendi Babst of the Clackamas County Sheriff's Office says the horses seized all showed signs of malnutrition. Most of the animals were lethargic with dull coats and some had bloated stomachs and visible wounds. The horses were transported to foster homes where each is being seen and treated by a veterinarian.

The body of a dead mare was located in a wooded area on the property. Babst says it appeared that the animal died within the past few weeks.

The owner of the horses, Virginia Winter, was at the residence during the search warrant and deputies say was cooperative. She was not arrested on any new charges but the case will be submitted to the Clackamas County District Attorney's Office for consideration of possible charges concerning the animals seized today. The 8-month-old horse seized earlier from Virginia Winter's home on February 17th 2005, is reported to be stable and improving daily. A veterinarian treating her says she has a good appetite, a good attitude and a good spirit. The horse, dubbed Miracle, has been able to stand for short periods of time and the veterinarian is encouraged about her recovery.

Virginia Winter was charged with one count of Animal Neglect I in the 2005 case.