RAPID CITY, S.D. – Meade County authorities continue to investigate an incident that led to the seizure of a number of horses and donkeys from the Charm Farm Refuge in Box Elder.
The investigation follows an action Friday by the Meade County Sheriff’s office to take the animals after complaints about the animal’s well being were received.
After checking in on the animals, a veterinarian with the Animal Industry Board said the animals had been neglected and recommended the animals be impounded.
State law does not require a warrant or court order to be supplied at the time the animals are seized.
Meade County States Attorney Michelle Bordewyk says “It appeared that there was inadequate food and water for the horses and the donkeys.” She says this pattern went on for several days.
The animals are currently in the custody of the Meade County Sheriff’s Office and a temporary care order has been approved. The animals are currently with a third party that is providing food, shelter, and other care.
The Farm’s owner, Tamara Lile, told KNBN-TV complaints from the public have been nothing new. And while the county is saying that on different occasions sheriff’s office officials had seen the animals without food or water, Lile said this is not true. She maintains that the animals have always had food and water and has been very open about it to law enforcement and the county.
Charges are still pending in the case.
