December 22, 2006

Sharpsburg, MD:  The civil hearing involving a petition brought by Ms. Barbara Reinken, owner of the Sharpsburg MD farm where 74 horses were seized on December 2nd, was given a continuance.  The court date has not been established at this time. 

At approximately 1:00 pm Ms. Reinken surrendered herself to authorities in response to criminal charges filed against her.  She was formally charged with 72 misdemeanor counts of abuse or neglect of animal and 4 felony counts of aggravated cruelty to animals.  Ms. Reinken has been released on bond. 

Upon conviction, each misdemeanor offense is subject to imprisonment not to exceed 90 days or a fine not exceeding $1,000, or both.  Upon conviction. each felony conviction is subject to imprisonment not exceeding three years or a fine not exceeding $5,000, or both. As a condition of sentencing, the court may order a defendant convicted of Aggravated Cruelty to animals to participate in and pay for psychological counseling.  The criminal trial is schedule for February 22nd at 1:00 pm at the Washington County District court building, 36 W. Antietam Street, Hagerstown, MD. 

Of the 74 horses seized at the Sharpsburg property one died en route to a veterinary facility and 2 have been euthanized.  “We are working very hard to make sure we do not loose any more horses,” stated Paul Miller, Executive Director of the Humane Society of Washington County.  He added, “It is still too early to say definitely that the remaining horses are out of the danger, however.”   Preliminary estimates of the initial veterinary care are being compiled. 

For those wishing to contribute to the ongoing veterinary care and rehabilitation of the seized horses, contributions can be made out to the Humane Society of Washington County, Attention: The Sharpsburg Horse Rescue Medical and Rehabilitation Fund, 13011 Maugansville Road, Hagerstown MD  21740.