A notorious horse trader known for severe animal neglect has been sentenced to three years in prison following years of campaigning by activists, police, and local authorities. The Andalucian Rescue Centre for Horses (ARCH) was alerted to several equines living in appalling conditions behind a supermarket in La Linea, including a dead donkey and animals without food or water. Despite previous efforts since 2021 to confiscate animals from the dealer, he had evaded jail by transferring ownership to others. This time, a more sympathetic judge handed down the prison sentence after a coordinated effort involving ARCH, local police, and animal rights lawyers.

ARCH has rescued six animals from the recent case, many requiring urgent veterinary care due to severe neglect, including an elderly donkey suffering from colic and depression. The organization continues to investigate, fearing more abused horses may be discovered. ARCH operates without government funding and faces financial strain, especially amid recent storms, relying heavily on public donations to cover rescue and rehabilitation costs. They have appealed for support to continue their work saving neglected equines and providing them with necessary care.