“Shock and Outrage: Dead Horses and Animals Discovered Across West Valley Desert”

BUCKEYE, Ariz. — Disturbing reports have emerged from the West Valley, where locals have discovered numerous dead animals abandoned in the desert. The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating these incidents, which could lead to felony charges for those responsible.

During a walk along desert trails, Tammy Johnson encountered the gruesome sight of decomposing horses and goats, many tied with ropes. Shocked by the discovery, she reached out to news outlets, noting a similar situation closer to her home. “It’s disgusting, it’s inhumane,” Johnson remarked about the frequency of these occurrences.

Another case was highlighted when Ray Cooper, a photographer in Morristown, found a horse with its legs tied to a tree and visible signs of trauma. Initially fearing torture, investigators soon ruled out this possibility. Detective Warren Voight explained that it seems the area is being used to illegally dispose of deceased animals.

“What it appears is somebody’s using that area to dump off animals that may have died in the backyard,” Voight stated, pointing out the presence of discarded trash alongside the dead animals. He explained that individuals will often transport larger animals to remote locations rather than pay the fee for legal disposal.

Voight warned that those caught dumping animals face serious consequences. “By dumping a horse out in the desert, you’re subject to being arrested under a felony,” he said. The law classifies dumping animals heavier than 300 pounds as a felony, while smaller animals fall under misdemeanor littering.

In his earlier investigation, Voight noted that an animal found in Morristown likely died shortly before being discarded, attributing its condition to natural decomposition. He urged the community to explore legal disposal options, which include a landfill in Buckeye and local veterinarian services for smaller pets.

Johnson is advocating for stricter enforcement against animal dumping and encourages those dealing with the loss of large animals to seek community assistance. “We’re most certainly able and willing to try to find those resources to help you,” she emphasized.