LOCAL : Traffic Jam Leads to Shutdown of Illegal Santa Clarita Area Rodeo

An illegal rodeo in a makeshift wooden ring complete with a grandstand north of Santa Clarita was shut down by Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies who discovered it while investigating traffic complaints, authorities said today.

About 250 participants and spectators were dispersed from a ranch in the largely rural area about 4:30 p.m. Sunday when deputies received a call that cars in the area were blocking a driveway, Sgt. David Stunson said. He said deputies saw the rodeo when they followed the trail of parked cars.

County animal control officers were called to the scene when deputies noticed that about 30 horses and steers used during the rodeo appeared to be malnourished and hurt, Stunson said.

Stunson said Jose Aranda, who said he owns the ranch in the 29300 block of San Francisquito Canyon Road, was cited for not having a permit for a public assembly, having improper emergency access and exits and improper restroom facilities. Stunson said it was not known how often rodeos have taken place there.

Stunson said the results of the animal cruelty investigation will be turned over to the district attorney’s office for possible filing of charges.

Animal Control Officer Stacy Ellingson said many of the animals at the ranch were dehydrated and had open wounds. None was impounded. They were treated at the scene by a veterinarian called by authorities.

Animal control officers are expected to monitor the animals’ care through the week, Ellingson said.