California woman arrested after 27 horses found dead, others emaciated, neglected

Authorities in California have arrested a woman after they found more than two dozen dead horses on several properties this week.

The woman is facing charges including criminal threats, cruelty to an animal, threatening a public official, and possession of a short-barrel shotgun, according to the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office. She is scheduled to appear in court on Friday.

Court records obtained by USA TODAY on Thursday show the case was filed as a felony.

On Wednesday, deputies and animal services officers carried out a search warrant at several properties in Clements, about 40 miles southeast of Sacramento. They found “several malnourished horses” that had “limited access to any food or water.”

About 27 dead horses were also found at the scene.

Other animals had to be euthanized

Photos shared by the San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office show the horses, one of which is extremely emaciated. The animal service officers and veterinarians evaluated and rescued 16 of them.

“Unfortunately, four horses and one bull had to be euthanized due to their extreme neglect,” the sheriff’s office said.

The rescued horses were taken to Oakdale Equine Rescue, “who will ensure they receive proper nutrition, medical attention, and rehabilitation,” the sheriff’s office said.

The agency continued: “We are committed to protecting the welfare of all animals in our community and will continue to investigate this matter.”

The sheriff’s office identified the woman charged as Jan Ann Johnson. No attorney was listed for her in court records.

Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at tardrey@gannett.com.