Investigators hope the offer of a rich cash reward will help them identify those operating horse slaughter farms and selling horsemeat illegally in Florida.

Since 2009, more than 50 Florida horses have been butchered for their meat. In 2010, Florida lawmakers passed legislation making it illegal to for anyone to slaughter a horse to obtain its meat. In 2012, the town of Southwest Ranches enacted an ordinance that levies steep fines and other penalties on anyone who slaughters a horse for human consumption in that town.

Last week, the Animal Recovery Mission (ARM), along with personnel from the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies, raided three illegal slaughter farms. Richard Cuoto, ARM founder, said the raids took place at Rancho Garcia in Loxahatchee and G.A. Paso Fino Farm and Medina Farm, both in West Palm Beach. A total of 750 animals—including horses, goats, cattle, pigs, dogs, cats, and birds—were rescued during the raids.

Cuoto said the operators of the illegal slaughter farms frequently obtained Thoroughbreds from nearby racetracks and purchased or stole Quarter Horses and other show horses of various breeds