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.
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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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