NYC Carriage Horse Trial: Prosecution Rests Case After Veterinarian Testimony

Prosecution's Case in Carriage Horse Trial

• ⚖️ The prosecution has rested its case in the animal cruelty trial of a handler whose carriage horse, Ryder, collapsed in Hell's Kitchen in August 2022.
• 🐴 Video of Ryder collapsing after a full day in 84-degree weather went viral, with the Manhattan DA's office alleging the horse was pushed beyond its limit.

Veterinarian Testimony on Ryder's Condition

• 🔬 A forensic veterinarian testified that Ryder should not have been working on the day of his collapse, citing heat, long hours, and insufficient fat and muscle as contributing factors, though not the sole cause.
• 🩺 Cancer, specifically T-cell leukemia, was found in multiple organs during a necropsy, which the vet stated was a likely contributing factor but not the only cause of the collapse.
• 🏥 The defense called the director of veterinary public health services, who stated a vet must submit a certificate of health before horse licenses are signed off.

Defense Arguments and Witness Statements

• 🗣️ Christina Hansen, chief shop steward for TWU Local 100, testified that Ryder appeared bright and alert and never seemed unhealthy.
• 👨‍⚕️ An expert witness, the Ecquin veterinarian for the NYPD, examined Ryder after the collapse and suggested neurologic issues and underweight condition, though prosecutors noted the expert had faced fines and suspensions.

Next Steps in the Trial

• 🎤 Ian McKver, the handler, is expected to take the stand in his own defense.
• ⚖️ Closing arguments will follow, with McKver having pleaded not guilty and facing up to a year in jail if convicted.
• 💔 Ryder was retired to an upstate farm but was euthanized in October of that year.