ORANGE COUNTY, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Andy Kocher, a local equestrian who breeds, produces and auctions top quality jumpers –following a sullied career in show jumping– has been charged with two counts of inadequate care of agricultural animals.

Under the specific Virginia code cited, “owners shall provide for each of his agricultural animals food to prevent malnourishment; water to prevent dehydration; and veterinary treatment as needed to address impaired health or bodily function when such impairment cannot be otherwise addressed through animal husbandry, including humane destruction.” Violation of the code is a Class 4 misdemeanor, which carries a fine of no more than $250.

Kocher’s first hearing is scheduled to take place in Orange County General District Court on Wednesday, September 4, 2024. Court records give no details, but WINA News has obtained photographs from someone who has asked to remain anonymous that show multiple horses reduced to skin and bones, including a mare and her foal.

In June of 2021, the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) Tribunal issued Kocher a 10-year suspension from competing for the use of electric spurs on several horses throughout a prolonged period of time. The FEI also disqualified results from eight FEI events between June 2018 and November 2019, alongside a significant fine. Kocher appealed the FEI Tribunal’s decision the following month, seeking to eliminate or otherwise reduce the sanctions imposed. Last October, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) concluded that the suspension was warranted.

WINA News has reached out to Kocher for comment, but he has yet to respond.