Crime & Safety
Williamson County Animal Control Officers Seize Neglected Horses North Of Austin
Acting on a tip, sheriff's deputies found more than a dozen emaciated horses and charged property owner with cruelty to livestock.
WILLIAMSON COUNTY, TX — Williamson County animal control officers on Friday seized more than a dozen neglected and mistreated horses outside of Austin, officials said.
The seizure took place in Thrall, Texas, located some 35 miles northeast of Austin, at around 10 a.m. Deputies were directed to the ranch after receiving a tip related to animal cruelty, officials said in a news advisory.
Once there, deputies found the emaciated animals. The Williamson County Sheriff's Office released some photos of the animals, clearly demonstrating the neglect.
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“The animals were found in very poor conditions and thanks to the tip we received our deputies were able tosave these horses,” Sheriff Robert Chody said.
Jesse Gonzales Jr. was arrested and faces two counts of cruelty to livestock and one state jail felony. The horses were transported to Live Oak Horse Veterinary Clinic in Liberty Hill, Texas, where they are currently receiving medical attention.
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>>> Photos provided by the Williamson County Sheriff's Office
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