Protesters Demand Justice For Horses

By Gordon HopkinsA group of picketers were seen outside the Gage County Courthouse the afternoon of Monday, March 11, 2024. They were protesting the treatment of horses by a local veterinarian and the county attorney’s decision not to pursue criminal charges against that veterinarian.On Thursday, August 17, 2023, the Gage County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at Blue Valley Veterinary Clinic in Beatrice and Pickrell Veterinary Clinic in Pickrell, related to an investigation into the neglect of livestock at those locations. The sheriff’s office was assisted by a State Deputy Sheriff who works as an investigator for the Nebraska Brand CommitteeAccording to the sheriff’s office, 37 horses were seized. An affidavit requesting a search warrant noted, “The Gage County Sheriffs Office has received several reports from citizens concerning the care and possible neglect of horses owned by Jennafer Glaesemann.”According to that same affidavit, “approximately 11 horses have died in the field behind the Blue Valley Veterinary Clinic and reportedly two more horse have died at the Pickrell Veterinary Clinic.”Dr. Glaesemann, veterinarian and owner of the clinics, was originally charged with 37 counts of animal neglect. However, Gage County Attorney Roger Harris later dismissed those charges. Harris explained he had doubts about whether or not he could prove abuse. As part of the agreement, Glaesemann cannot own horses in Gage County for the next two years.”Harris also cited “misinformation and inappropriate attempts” to influence the prosecution. Harris issued a statement that read, in part, “And we realize not everyone will agree with the decisions that we have made. Hopefully, they will realize that it was a difficult decision based upon the investigation reports we had, a decision that was required by professional prosecutorial ethics and one which was not based upon social media or personal agendas.”As part of an agreement with Glaesemann, she agreed to relinquish ownership of the horses. The horsed were in the care of Epona Horse Rescue in Lancaster County, a 501c3 rescue dedicated to the welfare of horses. As of press time, they were scheduled to be auctions off on Tuesday, March 12, 2024.

Stewart Signs With Highland

Wymore Electric Rate Increase Gets Second Reading

Related Articles

High Winds Fuel Multiple Wild Fires in SE Nebraska

Sen. Ricketts Makes the Case for War

City Offices Closed During Move

A Broken Wire Over Railroad Tracks Leaves City in the Dark