Judge throws out animal abuse charges; Walton crowd protests

When a Walton County judge rejected a request for a warrant to bring charges of animal abuse against a Walton County man for allegedly starving a mini-horse, the community was up in arms.

A cry of protest rang out from users of Facebook and through e-mail Wednesday after Alaqua Animal Refuge called on its more than 7,000 followers to “be the voice for this animal — his life depends on it.”

To see a photo gallery of the animal at Alaqua, click here.

"We're requesting the judge review the evidence again," said Alaqua owner Laurie Hood, "but I don't know if he will. Since no charges are being brought against the owner, there is the chance he could come to claim him."

When reached for comment, County Judge David Green said rules and guidelines prohibit him from discussing or commenting on a case before him.

"I can say, though, that we look at the whole picture and we have to do what is right instead of what is popular," said Green Wednesday afternoon.

However, according to Walton County Sheriff Michael Adkinson, the evidence was strong enough that he and State Attorney Greg Anchors had asked for a felony warrant against the horse's owner.

The request was denied and Adkinson and Anchors resubmitted, requesting a misdemeanor warrant, which was denied on Wednesday.

"Historically, I know that animal abuse cases are hard to prosecute, but we felt we had a strong enough case or we wouldn't have asked for it," Adkinson told The Sun.

Atkinson said the judge gave him no reason for the denial.

"I suspect it has to do with the way the laws are written," said Adkinson.

But many in the community said it was a clear case of injustice. They maintain that the horse owner’s spouse is a county employee, and was given special treatment.

For his part, Anchors told The Sun “I understand” the wife works for the county.

Green, however, said he wasn’t aware of such a relationship and even if one exists, he would not give them special consideration.

The horse in question was taken to Alaqua Animal Refuge by animal control on Aug. 20 so badly malnourished that it weighed 80 pounds and could not stand. According to a vet at the center, he should have weighed between 250 and 300 pounds. He was found lying in dirt with no food or water.

Blood was drawn for testing to check for disease. Tests showed his liver and kidneys were fine and that he was only malnourished.

Hood slept in the barn with the horse she named Champ for the first few nights so that she could feed him every two hours.

"He was so weak that when he tried to stand, he would fall," said Hood.

As of Wednesday, the miniature horse had gained 20 pounds and could again run and frolick outside.

While residents, online and in person call for action, Adkinson said there is no next step since the judge has rejected two requests for a warrant.

"I just would like to see Champ's future as it should be," said Hood. "It's an emotional thing for me."

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To read the Daily News' take on the story, click here.