SANTA ROSA, Calif. (AP) — Prosecutors have dropped an animal cruelty charge against an Olympic-level equestrian from Santa Rosa who was accused of starving a horse.
The Press Democrat of Santa Rosa reports that 58-year-old Gwen Stockebrand was scheduled to go on trial this week before she reached an agreement with the District Attorney's Office.
In exchange for having the charge dropped, Stockebrand must volunteer for 80 hours at a horse facility and allow inspections by animal control officers.
She also cannot seek the return of the horse she was accused of starving at her Santa Rosa ranch — a 30-year-old mare named "Valerie."
The allegations against Stockebrand arose last December after Sonoma County animal control officers said she tried to give two emaciated horses to a ranch in Willits.
Stockebrand has been part of several U.S. equestrian teams.
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Information from: The Santa Rosa Press Democrat, http://www.pressdemocrat.com
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