David Palacio and Janine Chaux, owners of Happy Valley Horse Rescue in Marion County, were arrested and charged with 22 counts of aggravated animal cruelty and 16 counts of animal cruelty after deputies discovered 71 horses in poor health and deplorable conditions at their facility. The investigation began following a tip in November, revealing many horses underweight, in pain, and living in unclean stalls, with two horses euthanized due to their condition.

The horses have since been taken into the sheriff’s office custody and relocated to various horse rescues across the state, where they are receiving proper care and rehabilitation. Palacio and Chaux remain in jail on a $71,000 bond as authorities continue to address the case.