RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate have executed a second warrant at a Mornington Peninsula property on 25 September, seizing 35 horses as part of a current investigation.
Speaking about the operation, RSPCA Victoria CEO Dr Liz Walker said she was incredibly proud of the Inspectorate’s work today and securing this outcome.
“This is a really complex investigation, and the operation today has been large scale and logistically challenging,” Dr Walker said.
RSPCA Victoria Inspectors initially attended the property in April, responding to reports of underweight animals.
Inspectors issued legal notices to comply under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (1986) (POCTAA) for a number of horses and attended the property more than 20 times throughout the investigation to monitor compliance.
RSPCA Victoria executed a warrant on 18 September to seize and gather evidence, following cruelty reports and information provided directly to RSPCA Victoria’s Inspectorate from eyewitnesses.
RSPCA Victoria Inspectors seized the body of a mare viable for autopsy.
The autopsy found her death was not a breach of the POCTAA and her death is not under investigation.
“We’d like to assure the community we are doing everything in our power under the legislation regarding this case,” Dr Walker continued.
“Our Inspectorate will not hesitate to take action when we are legally able to do so, and all legal action is guided by evidence and due legal process – not personal opinion and social media posts.”
As this investigation remains ongoing, we are unable to provide any further details at this time. The horses will remain in RSPCA Victoria’s care.
RSPCA Victoria Inspectors are the only authorised officers under the POCTAA who currently enforce and prosecute horse welfare in the state.
We have received nearly 1,200 cruelty reports related to horses in the last financial year and over 10,200 animal cruelty reports more broadly.
To find out how to make an animal cruelty report, visit RSPCA Victoria.
If an animal is in immediate danger or at risk of death, contact Victoria Police.
