Dead horse found in Florida man’s backyard, investigators say

Another emaciated, but living, horse was also found in the small confined backyard in Riverview, an unincorporated area outside Tampa, Hillsborough County sheriff’s agricultural deputies said in a release.

The two horses were found in the backyard without water, shelter or food. The dead horse had been that way for several days, investigators said.

Neighbors told investigators they had not seen the owner in several weeks.

The surviving horse is being cared for at a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office shelter.

David Wayne Middleton was arrested and charged with unlawful confinement or abandonment of animals. Officials said more charges could be filed.