GRAPHIC: 20 horses seized in Nichols during ongoing animal neglect case, 2 charged

HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WPDE) — Two people are facing charges in connection to an ongoing animal care and neglect case in Horry County.

There have been 20 emaciated horses seized from a location in the 5000 block of Highway 76 near Nichols, according to the Horry County Police Department.

Angela Nester, owner of 16 of the horses, was issued 16 citations for animal cruelty in relation to this case.

Elka Carter, owner of four of the horses, was also issued four citations for animal cruelty in relation to this case.

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The Horry County Animal Care Center said that two of the horses had to be euthanized due to their condition. The others were transported to their facility to receive treatment.

At this time, the horses are not available for rescue or adoption due to the ongoing investigation. The horses will remain in the care of our staff as long as needed.

"While we are not used to having so many large animals at once, our staff has been working long hours with big hearts and open minds to provide for these horses, and we will continue to do so," said the Horry County Animal Care center in a Facebook post. "If you feel it in your heart to help, we would greatly appreciate some assistance in obtaining feed and care items."

Since many horse-related items are not available on Amazon directly, the HCACC added Tractor Supply gift cards to the Amazon list.

"Purchasing these gift cards will allow us to buy feed locally, just down the street."

If you'd like to donate, click here.

Community members are also welcome to drop off or mail gift cards to the facility, located at 1923 Industrial Park Road, Conway, SC 29526.