New York thoroughbred horse breeder Ernie Paragallo was arrested and charged with 22 counts of animal cruelty on April 10, 2009. 177 horses were removed from his 511-acre Paraneck Stable farm, many of which were said to be in horrible condition, malnourished and covered in lice, parasites and skin infections.
In a short statement from Paragallo on April 10, 2009, the breeder admitted that the treatment of the horses "was all his fault," citing "mismanagement" as the leading cause of the animal's condition. Paragallo claimed that, on paper, it appeared that his farm had more than enough feed for the horses, though followed up his statement by saying "horses can't eat paper."
References
Fast Facts
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177 abused and neglected horses removed from his stables
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Horses between the age of one and 20
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New York Racing Association revoked credentials following arrest
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Prohibited from handing over management of stable to relatives or current employees
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More than 60 horses handed over to S.P.C.A
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Humane Society launched feeding program to treat malnourishment of horses
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Takes responsibility for horses abuse
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Blames abuse on "mismanagement"
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Has won estimated $20.6 million in winnings
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Started career of 4,686 racehorses
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Each of the 22 counts could carry punishment of one year in prison, $1000 fine
