The Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA) has voted to suspend indefinitely the training license of embattled Tennessee Walking Horse trainer Jackie McConnell.

In February, a federal grand jury in Tennessee handed down a 52-count indictment accusing McConnell, and three others of conspiring to violate the Horse Protection Act (HPA). The USDA enforces the act. McConnell’s case remains pending. More recently on May 16, ABC’s "Nightline" broadcast included a segment featuring graphic video images of soring techniques applied to Tennessee Walking Horses at a barn allegedly operated by McConnell.

Winky Groover, WHTA representative, said that on May 17, that organization’s board of directors voted to begin proceedings to suspend McConnell’s trainers license. Under WHTA rules, McConnell can respond to board’s decision, Groover said.

McConnell was unavailable for comment. Atty. Tom Greenholtz, who represents McConnell in the federal HPA violation declined to comment on the suspension vote