MARION COUNTY, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—On Thursday, February 13, 2025, a disturbing case of animal cruelty led to the arrest of a local man after authorities discovered several neglected horses on his property.
Deputies and a Humane Agent from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a horse trapped in a pasture fence in the 1000 block of Decliff Road North.
Upon arrival, deputies found a black and white horse struggling with its front legs entangled in the fencing. Although the horse was still alive, it was severely emaciated and appeared to have been struggling to stand for an extended period. With the assistance of a concerned neighbor, deputies worked diligently to free the horse from the fence. Due to its evident injuries and inability to stand, a veterinarian was called to assess its condition.
As the investigation unfolded, deputies made contact with the property owner, identified as 71-year-old Marlin Rae Adkins. During their search, they discovered the remains of seven deceased horses in varying states of decay—four inside a barn alongside other living horses, and three in a pasture area.
Further investigation revealed that the remaining live horses and goats on the property had no access to food or clean water. Deputies found no grain or hay available, and all accessible water sources were frozen solid. In total, 11 horses and two goats were rescued from the property, all of which were severely malnourished and emaciated. Tragically, the horse that prompted the initial call had to be humanely euthanized on-site at the veterinarian’s recommendation.
As a result of the investigation, Adkins was arrested and charged with 18 counts of Cruelty to Animals and 3 counts of Failure to Register a Canine. Authorities indicated that further investigations into the condition of the rescued animals are ongoing, and additional charges may be filed in the future.
Sheriff Bayles would like to recognize the tireless efforts of the Deputies and Humane Agent involved in this heartbreaking investigation. Sheriff Bayles stated, “The conditions that these poor animals were living in was deplorable. We will always work tirelessly to protect those who cannot protect themselves and bring those to justice that choose to treat other living creatures with such incredible disregard for their welfare.
Sheriff Bayles would like to extend a special “Thank you” to Diamond M Veterinary Clinic and the Wyandot County Humane Society for accepting the rescued animals and for providing them with expert care and rehabilitation. Anyone wishing to make a donation towards the care of these poor animals can do so by visiting wyhumane.org.
In addition to those mentioned above, 5 special Marion County citizens will be recognized at a later date for their incredible efforts during this rescue effort.
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