Two Midlands women accused of mistreating horses

Lexington Co., S.C. (WOLO)– Lexington Co. Animal Services investigators say two women are accused of mistreating horses.

Investigators say Danielle Fowlston is charged with nine counts of felony ill-treatment of animals while Michelle Murray is facing one charge of felony ill treatment of animals.

 “In mid-February, Lexington County Animal Services investigators received information regarding horse welfare concerns at a Lexington County property where Fowlston operated an equine rescue,” Lexington County Animal Services Director Brittany Jones said. “Based on the information provided, we investigated and subsequently executed a court-authorized search warrant at the property.”

Officials say more than two dozen horses were found at a property owned by Fowlston and Murray

Investigators located more than two dozen horses of various color, size and breed at the property owned and cared for by Fowlston and Murray, according to Jones.

Officials say of the 27 horses seized some were emaciated and others have various medical conditions and concerns.

The horses were all transported to appropriate facilities to receive proper care.