Rancher Told to Repay County for Raids
County investigators have ordered rancher Slick Gardner to pay nearly $97,000 after raiding his ranch to remove 70 allegedly neglected wild mustangs.
The tab would pay for two raids at the Gardner ranch, where about 600 wild horses roam.
Santa Barbara County investigators, Animal Services workers and veterinarians participated in the raids, which were intended to gather evidence of alleged neglect and abuse.
Gardner has until Sunday to pay, county hearing officer James Lapinois said. His attorney, Steve Balash, said he plans to file a writ to have a Superior Court judge review the decision.
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
