An Alexander man has been sentenced to 2 years in the Ark. Department of Correction after pleading guilty to aggravated cruelty to a horse.
Robert Everett Keck was accused of 'severe neglect' of several horses, dogs and a pony that were found on his property in Oct. 2009.
Police received a report of several horses without food and water out at Keck's residence on West Lawson Road. Neighbors told detectives that the animals' condition had been deteriorating for some time.
The Pulaski County Humane Society took custody of 4 horses and 5 dogs that police said were in need of immediate medical attention because of starvation and neglect.
The Humane Society reported that all the animals were given emergency medical treatment to stabilize their condition, and placed under observation.
A miniature horse that was seized could no longer stand up, and was believed to be past rescue; however, after several weeks of intense care the horse recovered. After a preliminary hearing, the animals were deemed to have been neglected and custody was given to the Humane Society.
According to the Arkansas Department of Correction, Keck's plea is one of the first for aggravated animal cruelty where a prison sentence as been imposed.
Source:
http://www.todaysthv.com/news/local/story.aspx?storyid=139117&catid=2
