Carriage Driver Is Accused of Abusing a Sick, Elderly Horse — Until it Collapsed on N.Y.C. Street and Later Died

A carriage driver in New York City is facing allegations of abusing a sick and elderly horse, which later collapsed on a street in the city and tragically died. Ian McKeever, a veteran carriage driver with over 30 years of experience, has been charged with one count of misdemeanor animal cruelty in connection with the incident that occurred on a sweltering August day in 2022. The criminal trial against McKeever began recently in Manhattan, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges, as reported by various news outlets.

According to reports, the horse named Ryder collapsed on a busy Manhattan street after allegedly pulling a carriage for more than seven hours on an 84-degree day. The prosecution claims that the horse was pushed beyond its limits, leading to its distress and eventual collapse. Witnesses, including a New York City police sergeant and a concerned onlooker, testified in court about the events leading up to Ryder’s collapse and subsequent death months later. It was revealed that the horse was 26 years old, twice the age McKeever reportedly told authorities, and was suffering from various health issues.

Despite arguments from McKeever’s defense team that the horse was not overworked and simply tripped and fell, prosecutors painted a picture of a distressed animal being forced to continue working. The jury heard testimonies describing Ryder’s struggle to carry the carriage before collapsing, with witnesses recalling McKeever’s alleged frustration and aggressive actions towards the horse. The case has sparked debates about the treatment of carriage horses in New York City, with animal rights activists calling for stricter regulations or a ban on horse-drawn carriages.

If convicted of the misdemeanor animal cruelty charge, McKeever could face up to one year in prison, along with potential fines or community service. The trial has shed light on the conditions and treatment of carriage horses in the city, prompting discussions about the welfare of these animals and the need for stronger protections. The incident involving Ryder has also led to calls for legislative action, with a proposed bill in the City Council named “Ryder’s Law” aiming to phase out horse-drawn carriages in memory of the deceased horse.

As the trial continues, all eyes are on the proceedings to see whether justice will be served for Ryder and to determine the accountability of those responsible for his alleged mistreatment and untimely death. The case has brought attention to the ethical considerations surrounding the use of carriage horses in urban environments and raised questions about the care and protection of these animals. The outcome of the trial is eagerly awaited by both supporters of animal rights and those involved in the carriage industry.