American Wild Horse Campaign and Wild Horse Connection pledge funds to bring justice for illegally snared wild horse
Reno, NV (November 22, 2023)- Today the American Wild Horse Campaign and Wild Horse Connection pledged a total reward of $6,000 for information leading to the enforcement action against the perpetrator(s). The organizations hope the reward will aid in bringing justice to the case of the illegal snaring of a three-year-old Virginia Range wild horse.
The wild horse was found on November 19, trapped in an illegally set snare, and severely injured from a likely second snare. As a result, she sustained a horrendous injury that nearly severed her leg and ultimately led to her death. She was found on public land east of Lockwood.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of this beautiful mare and outraged by the cruel circumstances surrounding her death,” said Tracy Wilson, AWHC’s Nevada State Director. “AWHC is pleased to join Wild Horse Connection in offering this reward and we remain committed to working with law enforcement to bring those responsible to justice.”
“This incident highlights the need for increased awareness, education, and enforcement to protect our wild horses from such senseless acts,” said Corenna Vance, president of Wild Horse Connection. “We encourage anyone with information to come forward and help us ensure that those responsible for this tragedy are held accountable."
The death of this horse comes just months after beloved Virginia Range stallion, Frost, was brutally slain with a crossbow, sparking outrage in the community. The accused, Jonathon Wilson, was arrested and charged with the killing of a wild horse and animal cruelty. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 7, 2024.
Members of the public, as well as individuals with knowledge of the incident, are urged to contact Wild Horse Connection’s 24/7 hotline at 775-352-3944. The $6,000 reward is offered as a powerful incentive for community members to assist in the investigation.
About the American Wild Horse Campaign
The American Wild Horse Campaign (AWHC) is the nation's leading wild horse conservation organization, with more than 700,000 supporters and followers nationwide. AWHC is dedicated to preserving the American wild horse and burros in viable, free-roaming herds for generations to come, as part of our national heritage. In addition to advocating for the protection and preservation of America's wild herds, AWHC implements the largest wild horse fertility control program in the world through a partnership with the State of Nevada for wild horses that live in the Virginia Range near Reno.
About Wild Horse Connection
Wild Horse Connection (WHC) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based on the Virginia Range. WHC holds the range management agreement with the Nevada Department of Agriculture for the Virginia Range horses. WHC focuses on public and horse safety and works to educate the community about living with wild horses.
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