VERNON–Nearly 100 horses were up for auction in Vernon today.
The sale comes after the SPCA seized 16 horses from a property in Armstrong in December. A protection officer with the association says the horses were emaciated, and three could not be saved.
WATCH: 16 inadequately fed horses seized from Armstrong farm
Since then, 69-year-old Gary Roberts has been charged with animal cruelty, and ordered to get rid of the rest of his herd.
Roberts vehemently denies any wrongdoing. “My intent was never, ever to abuse these animals,” Roberts claims, “and I think the whole process that they’ve implemented against me is uncalled for.”
Despite Roberts’ claims, the auction is a go and is expected to be well attended.
Some people have expressed concern that because so many animals are up for auction at the same time, it might be a draw for horse slaughter plants.
Valley Auction’s Don Raffan does not share that worry. “I’m certainly full of confidence that every horse will find a new home,” he assures.
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