RCMP Investigate Alleged Horse Sexual Assault Near Vernon, B.C.
/CONTENT WARNING: Animal sexual assault
Vernon North Okanagan RCMP are investigating a disturbing incident after a man allegedly sexually assaulted horses at a BX farm overnight on Friday, January 23. The incident occurred at Abigail Equestrian, a professional horse training facility located on L&A Road in the BX area of Vernon.
According to the property’s owner, Erica Van Meenen, surveillance footage shows a man entering the property in the middle of the night and spending time inside an enclosed animal pen with her horses. Van Meenen stated publicly that at least one horse was sexually assaulted, confirming to The Morning Star that the act constituted rape and was captured on video surveillance. She said the suspect was with the horses for a period of time before leaving the property.
Police were initially called to the rural property at approximately 1 a.m. on January 24 after a report of a trespasser. By the time officers arrived, the individual had fled the scene. An RCMP Police Dog Service team, along with additional officers, conducted an extensive search of the surrounding area but were unable to locate the suspect at that time.
Investigators later reviewed the surveillance footage from the property, which revealed that a criminal offence had occurred within the enclosed animal pen. After the farm released images of the suspect on social media in an effort to identify him, the post received widespread public attention. RCMP say this led to a significant volume of tips and information being submitted by the public.
According to Const. Chris Terleski, media relations officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP, investigators have since identified a suspect and continue to actively review information related to the case. Police emphasize that the investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with additional information related to this incident is asked to contact the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP.
