Bay Area Horse Owner Charged With Animal Cruelty, Herd Seized

More than two dozen horses in the South Bay are in need of some human help after allegedly being abused for years.

Humberto Uribe, 51, is accused of starving several of his horses at two locations, in Morgan Hill and Gilroy. He is charged with animal cruelty, which is a felony.

The animals were found "emaciated and neglected," authorities said. Three horses were taken in by a rescue organization Wednesday. More than two dozen more still need a permanent home.

“One bay colt died in September from complications due to intestinal parasites a day after Uribe sold it to the Equine Rescue Center and Sanctuary,” according to the Santa Clara County district attorney’s office.

In all, 38 horses were seized, according to the county. Authorities said there wasn't enough food and the property was filled with dangerous objects.

Trina Hineser, who lives across the street from Uribe, took pictures of emaciated horses and says she reported the problem to Animal Control for two years. She claims no action was taken until a district attorney investigator took over the case.

“Somehow or another, Animal Control needs to be held accountable,” Hineser said.

Attempts to reach Santa Clara County Animal Care and Control for comment were not successful Wednesday.

As for the horses, adoptions are only open to experts who know how to rehab sick animals. Anyone who would like to help is asked to donate to the Pregnant Mare Rescue Foundation.

Uribe was being held in San Mateo County on unrelated charges, authorities said. If convicted, he could face jail time.

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