(February 2005) - USERL investigators received 2 reports of an emaciated horse standing in a round pen near a road in Pasquotank County. After a drive-by conformation the investigators contacted Animal Control. From the road it was apparent that the horse, though covered in winter hair was extremely underweight. The outline of her hips and spine could be distinguished from the road, about 250 ft away.

Animal Control Officer Nick Williams was dispatched to examine the horse. USERL accompanied him. It was learned from this visit that the horse was "on loan" to the family that lived in the house. A "horse trader" had brought her to them as a possible horse for their kids. The family felt sorry for her and was considering purchasing her just to help her. They even paid for a vet exam. They were delighted at the involvement of USERL. Pasquotank County Animal control seized "Jewel" that day. Imagine the surprise when investigators learned the trader had ridden her in that condition to show how wonderful she was. At a body score of 2 with open seeping wounds and long hooves she was still willing to carry him up stairs and across debris piles without hesitation. To him this proved her worth to USERL this proved his guilt.

Gary Russell was charged with misdemeanor animal cruelty and at his original trial received a guilty verdict from the judge. He later chose to appeal this decision. The final decision came over a year and a half after the seizure date.

UPDATE (June 26, 2006) (Pasquotank County, NC) - USERL investigators and witnesses were present as the appeal proceedings began. All were surprised when Gary Russell pleaded no contest to the charge of animal cruelty and agreed to surrender ownership of his horse.

"Jewel" has been in USERL custody since February 2005 when Mr. Russell attempted to sell her to an unsuspecting family. At the time Jewel was approximately 20 yrs old scored a 2 on the Henneke Body Score Chart. She was visibly injured and her feet were also neglected.

Pasquotank County AC Officer Nick Williams obtained a warrant to seize the horse and the long road of recovery began. In only 8 weeks Jewel proved that she was indeed a sparkling gem. Another perfect example that age does not cause weight loss, lack of proper nutrition does.

Jewel's foster family have eagerly awaited the outcome so that they could apply to adopt her. She has become a welcome member of their family.

Jewel in February

Jewel in June