Horses seized at N.D. ranch after others found dead

NEW SALEM, N.D. (AP) – The Morton County Sheriff’s Office has seized 119 horses after finding 96 dead horses at a ranch north of New Salem over the Jan. 26-27 weekend.

Sheriff Dave Shipman tells The Bismarck Tribune there’s adequate feed and water for some of the horses, and they will be cared for on scene, but those in bad condition will be removed from the ranch.

The state’s attorney’s office will be considering whether to file charges in the case.

Authorities did not identify the ranch owner. Shipman says the man is retired and ”just got in way, way over his head.” He says the man is cooperating.

State Veterinarian Susan Keller says recent cold weather likely played a big role in the high death toll, along with a lack of adequate food and water.