Idaho Animal Rescue Network

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Wyoming Horse Abuse Case Taking a Turn in Idaho

This post was originally posted by Horse & Halo on their Facebook Page. This is an alarming and desperate situation. There are graphic images below.

FIVE HORSES STILL AT RISK IN SHERIDAN COUNTY. THREE FOALS. TWO MARES. THEY NEED OUR HELP.

THE FACTS:

April 2024 – 25 horses in Sheridan County, Wyoming, suffered horrific neglect at the hands of James Purdom, whose property became known as “Dead Horse Ranch.” Over 20 horses were found without food or water, and 14 deceased horses were discovered—on the same property where Purdom was seen tying and dragging an allegedly deceased horse just a month prior. Four horses were seized, one so critically compromised it had to be euthanized.

Despite 18 cruelty charges, a verbal deal—with no court order, no documentation—was brokered, allowing Purdom to “get rid of the horses” AND LOOK THE OTHER WAY.

September 24, 2024 – Reports continued of horses suffering without food or water. Additional charges brought the total to 30+ counts of neglect and cruelty. Yet, no horses were removed.

WHERE ARE THE HORSES NOW?

December 2024Horses began arriving in Idaho. Many were in horrific condition. One 3-year-old mare arrived with a severe, abscessed injury, barely able to walk.

• To prevent them from being dumped at auction, Idaho Horse Rescue took in 4 weanlings and 2 yearlings.

Horse & Halo took in one stud colt and secured an adopter for a stallion (soon to be gelded).

• One gray gelding still needs a home.

January 30, 2025 – Another trailer left Sheridan County. Horses were sold to an unknown trainer. One older stallion, with a fractured leg and severe wounds, endured an 18+ hour transport —a clear violation of the Animal Welfare Act. He had to be euthanized immediately upon arrival.

YOUR CALL TO ACTION: Three People Can Make This Decision

EMAIL OR CALL

Sheridan County Prosecutor

Dianna Bennett

dbennett@sheridancountywy.gov

Phone: 307-674-2580

Senior Criminal Investigator

Chris Strang

chris.strang@wyo.gov

307-777-8095

Dr. Sarah Schreiber

msvh@moxeyvet.com

307-672-5533

That the remaining 5 horses are placed in the county’s care.

That James Purdom is fully charged and held accountable.

No more backroom deals. No more silence. Let the judge decide his fate.

Wyoming Coalition for Animal ProtectionAnimal Legal Defense Fund ASPCA American Humane

Share this. Speak up. The horses are counting on us.