Rescued horse recovering after alleged neglect in Flagler County
Rescued horse recovering after alleged neglect in Flagler County
A horse found severely malnourished in Flagler County is recovering at a local rescue after authorities arrested the man accused of neglecting him.
BUNNELL, Fla. - Laredo, a 27-year-old gelding, is getting stronger at SKC Hands Up horse rescue in Bunnell.
He was taken to the rescue run by Carolyn Mathis in July. Flagler County deputies said he was malnourished and neglected by the man who was supposed to take care of him.
In the past two months, Laredo has gained 150 pounds.
Rescue credits tipster with saving horse's life
The backstory:
Mathis said Laredo was in critical condition when he was rescued.
"I could put my whole hand into his ribs when he first came," Mathis said. "My whole hand would literally go in."
According to the Flagler County Sheriff's Office, Laredo was assigned a body condition score of 1 out of 9, indicating severe emaciation. His score has since improved to a 3.
Deputies arrested the man accused of caring for Laredo while the horse's owner was in jail. Jim Tyrone Lee, 41, was charged with aggravated animal cruelty and released on a $5,000 bond.
Jim Tyrone Lee, 41
Authorities said they learned about the horse's condition after receiving a report from a concerned citizen.
Mathis urged anyone who suspects animal neglect to contact authorities.
"Do not be hesitant to call," she said. "If you see an animal, especially a horse, being neglected, call your local animal control, call your local sheriff or call SKC Hands Up direct."
Long road to recovery
Mathis said Laredo required around-the-clock care during his first days at the rescue and continues to receive specialized feed and supplements.
"The last couple months have been great. This horse has taught me a lot," Mathis said.
Carolyn Mathis (L), the founder of SKC Hands Up horse rescue in Bunnell, tends to rescued horse "Laredo."
The nonprofit rescue, which sits on 40 acres in rural Flagler County, cares for more than 80 horses and several goats. Mathis said operating the facility costs about $20,000 a month.
How to help Laredo
What you can do:
SKC Hands Up said they have a donation drive to help pay for Laredo's care. Visit here for more information.
What's next:
The rescue plans a fundraiser featuring Laredo in November. Laredo will spend the rest of his life at the rescue where he is joined by 80 other horses and some more goats.
The Source: This story was written based on information provided by the Flagler County Sheriff's Office on September 14, 2026, and an interview with Carolyn Mathis, the founder of SKC Hands Up horse rescue in Bunnell, conducted on Sept. 18, 2026.