The Ryan Horse Company has been in the slaughter business since the early 1990’s. They are one of the suppliers for large scale kill buyer Jeron Gold in Michigan. AA investigators found horses at two different locations linked to the Ryan family. The majority was found at the 4 R Ranch in Rineyville, KY. The property appeared well maintained and contains a large barn, a loading ramp and extensive pastures in the back. The same truck & trailer that was observed at the Smiths Grove Auction a few days earlier, was parked next to the loading ramp.
Some horses were visible in the pasture, gathered around a bale of hay. All of them appeared to be in good condition. Investigators suspected more horses inside the barn, but there was no way to access it.
Investigation of Kentucky Slaughter Buyers and Auctions