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Blackie 
A
black Quarter Horse gelding of unknown age, Blackie was found tied
to a fence post on a 100-degree day. He was severely dehydrated and
emaciated. A few days after his rescue, Blackie succumbed to medical
complications and was euthanized. His rescuers—a veterinarian,
a retired police officer and a horse owner—saw Sonoma County
Animal Control’s need for skilled assistance with equine cases
and founded the non-profit Sonoma CHANGE Program as a support network
for AC to call upon. Blackie's
story enraged the public and captured the attention of the media.
A subsequent reward fund led to the identities of Blackie's former owners, both
of whom were charged with animal cruelty. Although one defendant eventually pled
guilty, the other has maintained his innocence and his
case is currently making its way through the legal system. The CHANGE Program
provides gratis expert witness assistance to the prosecution team for Sonoma
County District Attorney's office.
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