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Muncie horse trainer accused of animal abuse

Posted at 2:11 PM, Nov 30, 2016
and last updated 2016-11-30 14:15:48-05

MADISON COUNTY, Ind. -- A horse trainer faces an animal abuse charge, among others, after their horse was allegedly beaten to exhaustion.

A complaint signed by the Indiana Horse Racing Commission’s Executive Director Michael Smith alleges horse trainer Bobby Brower, “whipped, kicked and beat" a horse named B Abland on Aug. 18.

The complaint also states that as a result, the horse suffered injuries and collapsed from exhaustion. It also alleges Brower threatened potential witnesses when the incident occurred at a private Madison County training facility.

Smith recommends a 15-year suspension and a $40,000 fine and the Madison County Prosecutor, Rodney Cummings, is asking Indiana State Police to begin a criminal investigation.

Bower said the incident didn’t happen and witnesses are either exaggerating or misstating what they saw. He said the horse is “just fine" and slipped on the pavement back in August.

“I think what happened here is on a number of occasions people have seen something and reported it. I would say anytime you see behavior you have any question about, whether it’s animals or anyone, call the police and report,” said Cummings.

The trainer said he takes great care of his horses and plans to dispute all accusations.