Reward Offered in Double D Ranch Case
Monday, July 14, 2003
A reward of at least $100,000 is being offered for information leading to the apprehension and successful prosecution of those individuals responsible for the apparent attacks on five horses at Dena and Dave Lopez’s Double D Ranch in Versailles, Ky., on June 28. The reward fund is being offered under the jurisdiction of USA Equestrian, Inc., the National Equestrian Federation of the United States. Major pledges have been received from the United Professional Horseman’s Association of Lexington, Ky., and some private donors including the owners of the horses.
The American Saddlebred Horse Association (ASHA) Foundation Board has also voted to create a fund in which donors may designate that their contributions go to assist in providing a reward for the apprehension and conviction of the individual(s) responsible for the injuries to the Double D Ranch horses or to provide for their care and treatment. “It concerns us greatly as an Association and a community that one of our own could be so victimized,” said ASHA president Fred Sarver. “Our wishes are for the quick and total recovery of these horses and for the prompt arrests of the assailants.”
The injured horses include four-time World’s Champion and two-time Five-Gaited World’s Grand Champion CH Wild Eyed And Wicked, CH Cats Don’t Dance, Meet Prince Charming (the 2003 Bonnie Blue Junior Fine Harness Champion), Kiss Me and Sassational.
Veterinarians are conducting tests to identify the acid-like substance injected into the left front legs of the horses. Local media, police and other officials are also involved in the case. To provide information regarding the case please contact the Kentucky State Police, Post 12, in Frankfort, Ky., or call 1-800-378-3463.
Information on the reward fund can be found on the ASHA website www.asha.net.
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