Animals seized after investigation

Nine livestock animals owned by an Oasis couple were seized by state agriculture department representatives Friday afternoon.

Deputies with the Elmore County Sheriffs Department, in cooperation with a state veterinary investigator, served a search warrant at 13542 West Tilli Road around 11:20 a.m. to take custody of the seven horses and two donkeys.

The animals were taken without incident from the property of Craig and Rebecca Detten, according to Chief Deputy Nick Schilz. Arrangements were previously made to transport the horses and donkeys to a place in Emmett for needed care.

While the owners were not taken in custody, the investigation was turned over to the Elmore County prosecutor's office.

A long-term investigation revealed the owners where having a hard time caring for the animals, according to a press release from the sheriff's department. After a number of visits involving state agriculture officials and local sheriffs in an attempt to ensure the livestock remained in good health, the animals were seized in the best interest of both themselves and the owners.

This was a case where the owners believed they were providing adequate care for these horses and donkeys, said Detective Clint Andrus from the sheriff's department. However, observations made by veterinary investigators, sheriffs deputies and those regularly passing by the property felt they needed more care, he added.