Six horses seized from farm by Greene County Sheriff’s Office

GREENE COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Six horses who were "in immediate danger to their life, health or safety" were seized from a farm in Greene County by the sheriff's office following a jury trial.

On Aug. 6, after a two-day trial, a jury unanimously approved that the Greene County Sheriff's Office seize six horses from Hidden Creek Farm in the Ruckersville area of Greene County.

This comes after the Animal Control Division of the sheriff's office initially received a complaint in October 2024 regarding a severely malnourished horse on the property.

On Nov. 3, 2024, the sheriff's office carried out a search warrant at the farm with a state-certified veterinarian. Twenty-two horses were evaluated, and of those, six horses were determined to be "in immediate danger to their life, health or safety," officials said.

Horse examined by veterinarian at Hidden Creek Farm in Greene County on Nov. 3, 2024. (Photo: Greene County Sheriff's Office)

Horse examined by veterinarian at Hidden Creek Farm in Greene County on Nov. 3, 2024. (Photo: Greene County Sheriff's Office)

Horse examined by veterinarian at Hidden Creek Farm in Greene County on Nov. 3, 2024. (Photo: Greene County Sheriff's Office)

Horse examined by veterinarian at Hidden Creek Farm in Greene County on Nov. 3, 2024. (Photo: Greene County Sheriff's Office)

The six horses were seized and taken to an equine rescue organization, where they received necessary veterinary treatment and rehabilitation.

Also as a result of the trial, the horses will remain in custody of Greene County until they are approved for adoption.

Anyone with concerns regarding animal abuse is encouraged to contact the sheriff's office.