Target: Connie Pillich, Hamilton County Prosecutor, Cincinnati, Ohio
Goal: Seek maximum lawful penalties, a long-term animal ownership ban, restitution, and court-ordered counseling for the party allegedly responsible for emaciated horses used for trail rides while deprived of basic care.
Authorities seized 18 horses from a local ranch after humane agents and a veterinarian allegedly found shocking neglect. According to testimony described in court, multiple horses were emaciated and without adequate food or water. Some animals allegedly suffered from serious untreated medical conditions, including suspected cancer. Two horses were reportedly in such poor condition that they had to be euthanized.
Prosecutors have argued that despite the animals’ condition, the horses were still used for public trail rides. Images presented in court reportedly show animals with protruding ribs and other signs consistent with prolonged deprivation. The defendant is seeking to dismiss evidence, claiming unlawful searches, yet the underlying animal welfare concerns remain grave. These allegations point to sustained suffering, not a single lapse.
Meaningful accountability is vital to protect surviving animals and to deter future abuse. Appropriate sentencing should reflect the severity of the alleged neglect and the reported decision to keep exploiting debilitated horses. Demand prosecutors seek strong penalties within Ohio law, require mental health evaluation with counseling, mandate restitution for veterinary costs, and impose a lengthy ban on animal ownership or control.
PETITION LETTER:
Prosecutor Pillich,
We urge your office to pursue the strongest appropriate consequences in the case involving allegedly neglected horses seized from a local ranch in Hamilton County. Court testimony reportedly describes animals that were emaciated, deprived of food and water, and suffering from serious untreated conditions, including suspected cancer. Two horses were reportedly euthanized due to their condition. Despite this, the animals were still apparently used for public trail rides.
The allegations outline sustained suffering and apparent exploitation. Such conduct, if proven, merits penalties that match the harm. We ask that you seek maximum lawful sentencing, restitution to cover veterinary and care costs, mandatory counseling, and a long-term prohibition on owning, keeping, or working with animals.
Strong, visible accountability can protect surviving animals, deter future cruelty, and affirm that this community rejects apparent exploitation of vulnerable beings. Please act decisively on their behalf.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Isabel Leal
