BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) – Authorities in Burleigh County seized 38 horses from a man on the same day officials in neighboring Morton County took 119 horses away from him.
 
     Ninety-six dead horses were discovered on the Morton County property and three dead horses were found on the Burleigh County land. The horses that survived the alleged neglect are being fed and cared for onsite, except for 25 that are in bad shape and being cared for by a horse rescue organization.
 
     The  owner of the horses has not been identified because he has not been arrested. Prosecutors are considering charges.

Reported earlier…

NEW SALEM, N.D. (AP) – The Morton County Sheriff’s Office has seized 119 horses after finding 96 dead horses at a ranch north of New Salem over the weekend.

Sheriff Dave Shipman says there’s adequate feed and water for some of the horses and they will be cared for on scene, but those in bad condition will be removed from the ranch.

The state’s attorney’s office will be considering whether to file charges in the case.

Authorities did not identify the ranch owner. Shipman says the man is retired and “just got in way, way over his head.” He says the man is cooperating.

State Veterinarian Susan Keller says recent cold weather likely played a big role in the high death toll, along with a lack of adequate food and water.