A Winston woman has been arrested on charges of animal abuse and neglect.

Lieutenant Brad O’Dell of the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office said deputies began an investigation early this week after receiving a tip of a horse that was being mistreated at a property in the 600 block of Longhorn Lane in the Melrose area. O’Dell said during the investigation, deputies learned that the horse and property owner had no connection.

Deputies discovered a 3-year-old mixed breed horse, named Ace, who was found to be severely malnourished and in neglectful conditions. Ace’s owner, 24-year-old Morgan Faith Fowler, surrendered the horse to deputies on Wednesday. The animal was taken to a veterinary hospital for examination, and later to Strawberry Mountain Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. Overnight, Ace’s condition declined to the point that euthanasia was necessary for humane care.

Deputies contacted Fowler Thursday afternoon and took her into custody for first-degree animal neglect and second-degree animal abuse.  She was transported to the Douglas County Jail to be booked on those charges. Fowler was released later in the day.

Sheriff John Hanlin said, “This is a very severe case of neglect and abuse”. Hanlin said, “The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation and will provide all relevant facts to the Douglas County District Attorney’s Office”.

Anyone with information in the case is encouraged to contact DCSO at 440-4471.

Sheriff Hanlin expressed his thanks to Bailey Veterinary Clinic, Strawberry Mountain Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, and to the deputies and volunteers who worked to save Ace and are now holding Fowler accountable. Hanlin said, “These cases are never easy, and I cannot thank those who have been involved enough”.