Florida Raids Yield Arrests at Illegal Slaughter Farms

Six people were arrested following raids at the three illegal slaughter farms, some of which processed horses.
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The operators of three illegal slaughter operations in Florida are facing multiple charges after law enforcement officers and Animal Recovery Mission (ARM) personnel raided the farms in near Wellington.

Since 2009, more than 50 horses have been butchered for their meat in Florida. In 2010, Florida lawmakers passed legislation making it illegal to for anyone to slaughter a horse to obtain 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. That law stemmed from the theft and slaughter of a horse belonging to a town resident.

On Oct. 13, personnel from ARM, the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Department, and other agencies raided the illegal facilities.

Richard Couto, 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

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Written by:

Pat Raia is a veteran journalist who enjoys covering equine welfare, industry, and news. In her spare time, she enjoys riding her Tennessee Walking Horse, Sonny.

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