Criminal charge possible in horse's death

According to quarterhorsenews.com, the San Diego County Animal Services Department has recommended that criminal charges be filed against two people suspected of abusing the reining horse Bella Gunnabe Gifted prior to her death Sept. 21.

The district attorney's office confirmed that it is reviewing potential charges.

Mark Arballo of Arballo Reining Horses confirmed to the publication that the horse had been in his training program. Arballo said he is still living in California but not working at the same ranch. He says that law enforcement has not attempted to get in touch with him.

In late September, Fox5 reported that an unusual training method was being used and the horse panicked, leading to injuries resulting in her death. Arballo denied that he contributed to the horse's death.