Horse slaughter investigation expanded

*** Warning: Some of the images in this news piece may be disturbing to some viewers ***

SOUTHWEST MIAMI-DADE, Fla. -- Two days after a dead horse was found, more grim discoveries revealed a potential dumping ground for slaughtered animals.

The horses were most likely killed for their meat, which fetches a hefty price on the black market. Since the discovery of a dead horse in a grassy alley near Southwest 80th Street and 122nd Avenue, Thursday, slaughtered several days before, more horse remains were found. Now, the investigation into who is doing this, has now expanded.

Richard Couto of the Animal Recovery Mission suspects the other horse remains found near this most recent kill, could be associated with a dark form of Santeria. "Palo mayombe," he said, "which is a dark form of black magic, animal sacrifice and human sacrifice. They're dumping their ritualistic items here as well."

A couple found the first corpse of a slaughtered horse, which was less than two years old and most likely someone's pet. Investigators said predators beat then killed the stallion sometime between Wednesday and Thursday night. "Really hard to catch these guys, it's very frustrating, all you wanna see is these guys be in prison and rot," said Couto.

Miami-Dade Police said this more recently killed horse was likely slaughtered for its meat to sell on the black market.

Neighbors have been left on edge. "It's kinda scary here at night," said Barbie Pardo. "There's no street lights or anything."

Neighbors want their county commissioner, Javier Souto, to do something. His office has not commented.

If you have any information on either of these disturbing discoveries, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward.

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