Owner charged after several horses die in flood; refused to let neighbors help move animals to higher ground, sheriff says

CAMP VERDE, AZ (AZFamily/Gray News) — An arrest has been made following an investigation involving several horses that died during recent flooding in Arizona.

The Camp Verde Marshal’s Office said on Thursday that the suspect, whose name has not been released, is facing animal cruelty charges.

On Sunday, first responders were called to a property following reports that several horses were trapped in rising floodwaters. Investigators said emergency personnel and neighbors offered to help move the horses to higher ground, but the owner refused to release them from their enclosures.

The marshal’s office said the owner received repeated warnings about worsening weather but didn’t move the horses before floodwaters overtook them.

Crews spent the following days searching for the horses. While four horses were rescued, three were found dead. Four other horses are missing and presumed dead.

Investigators collected evidence, spoke with witnesses and emergency responders and reviewed veterinary evaluations before arresting the horses’ owner.

“The Camp Verde Marshal’s Office recognizes and appreciates the extraordinary efforts of Copper Canyon Fire and Medical Authority, Emergency Equine Evacuation, veterinary professionals, neighboring residents, and volunteers who worked tirelessly under extremely dangerous conditions to save these animals,” the agency posted on Facebook. “Animal welfare is a responsibility that should never be taken lightly. Animals depend on their owners for appropriate care, protection and safety, particularly during emergencies and natural disasters.”

More than 100 homes were damaged, a dozen of which are a total loss, after severe flooding in Camp Verde.