Stolen Horses: A Family’s True Story of Recovery

A Note from Stolen Horse International | NetPosse:
Even though we did not have an official case filed for these three horses, we were in touch with Kyndi during the ordeal. Stories like this remind us of the devastating impact of horse theft and why it’s critical for owners to be proactive in protecting their horses. Take steps now—document, monitor, and secure your horses—so that if the unthinkable happens, you are prepared. Awareness and action save lives.

At Stolen Horse International | NetPosse, a “happy dance” story is never just about celebration. Even when horses are found alive, the road to recovery is often paved with fear, uncertainty, and moments no owner should ever have to endure. This case ended with three horses located and safe—but the story behind their disappearance still matters.

“They’re Just Gone”—When Instinct Says This Isn’t Normal

The first sign that something was wrong was simple and devastating: the horses were gone.

They free roam legally on and around the family’s property in an open range area. They are seen every day. Their routines are known. Their boundaries are familiar.

And suddenly, they weren’t there.

“They’re just gone. They free roam on and around our property. We live in an open range area. I believe they were taken. Copper would NEVER wander off without Brownie. Even with Brownie, they’ve never gone further than just to the neighbors on our driveway to visit their horse. The boys have wandered some towards their old owners’ home, but it’s just a couple miles away. Copper does not. That’s part of the reason I believe there is foul play involved. Copper wouldn’t just leave Brownie.”
— Kyndi Sutfin-Perry

Predators were quickly ruled out—the pony was still there. Behavior patterns told a different story. Almost immediately, the family knew this wasn’t wandering.

This was theft.

Days of Fear, Prayer, and Not Knowing

There had been previous conflicts with a person Kyndi believes orchestrated the horses being taken—retaliation rooted in that individual’s refusal to follow the law. At the time, there was no proof—only instinct and dread.

The days that followed were agonizing. Kyndi searched constantly, missed work, lost wages, cried daily, and prayed endlessly.

“I honestly thought they were dead,” she shared. “I prayed that if they weren’t alive, they didn’t suffer.”

Even a short time without answers can feel endless when beloved horses are missing.

Meet the Horses at the Heart of This Case

Three senior horses were taken—each deeply loved and instantly recognizable.

Nuka, a 21-year-old bay gelding, is not branded but has a perfect diamond-shaped marking on his left forearm. The marking can be harder to see when his coat grows thick, but it is always there. Nuka is gentle, approachable, and known for being an easy, steady ride.

Crazy Eye, a 23-year-old chestnut gelding, has two brands on his left hindquarter. He is very sensitive about people being around his head, a trait that makes him especially recognizable.

Copper, a 37-year-old chestnut mare, is Kyndi’s mom’s heart horse. Her age, routine, and unwavering attachment to Brownie were some of the strongest indicators that something was terribly wrong when the horses vanished.

A Facebook Post Leads to the Breakthrough

The turning point came through community awareness.

Someone saw Kyndi’s Facebook post and contacted their daughter—who then called the family directly. That phone call changed everything. The horses had been recognized on another property.

The man who physically took them had been working there cutting fields and had other horses stabled on the property. Once the family realized what they had seen, they put themselves in an uncomfortable position—but chose to do the right thing.

The relief was immediate and overwhelming.

“They are safe! Unfortunately it was foul play and our horses were STOLEN. Thank you to everyone who shared our post and helped us find them! I’m very thankful for the family who put themselves in an awkward position to do the right thing. I can’t thank you enough.”
— Kyndi Sutfin-Perry

Recovery Turns Dangerous

When Kyndi and her family arrived to retrieve the horses, the situation escalated.

The individual responsible for taking them showed up during the pickup and assaulted Kyndi’s husband, punching him in the face. One witness recognized the escalation and began recording video.

Law enforcement was called immediately. The man was arrested. However, just hours later, the family received a call that he had already been released.

This moment highlights a harsh reality of equine theft cases: even when arrests are made, the legal process can leave victims feeling exposed and unsafe.

Found—But Not Home

Although the horses were recovered, they are not yet home.

Out of genuine concern for their safety, Kyndi made the difficult decision to keep them in a secure location with family for now. Given the circumstances, bringing them home immediately did not feel safe. Brownie was moved to be with them so she wouldn’t be heartbroken and alone.

Because the family lives far out in a rural area, there was a delay while a truck and horse trailer were brought into town. While waiting, they went to see the horses—to touch them, love on them, and make sure they were okay.

By the time the horses were transported, it was completely dark. There were no daylight homecoming photos.

But there was peace. And there was relief.

Pressing Forward, Even When It’s Hard

The aftermath continues. Lost wages must be recovered. Bills caught up. Extra security measures have been put in place.

Charges are being pursued to the fullest extent possible.

“When you’re doing it the right way, the law can take time,” Kyndi said. “But we’re pressing forward.”

Despite everything—the fear, the violence, the uncertainty—it was still a birthday she will never forget.

“All in all,” she shared, “it was a great birthday, because I knew they were finally safe.”

Why This Story Matters

Even though this was not the case with Stolen Horse International,  this case is a powerful reminder of why Stolen Horse International | NetPosse exists:

• Horses can be stolen—even in open range areas
• Knowing your horses’ routines and behavior matters
• Identification details save lives
• Social media awareness can break a case
• Recovery does not always mean immediate safety
• Documentation and reporting are essential

Today, we celebrate the happy dance. But we also honor the truth behind it. Because finding stolen horses alive is only the beginning—and every safe recovery is hard-won.

1. Horse Theft Is Real. Be Prepared: Even if your horses roam freely, theft can happen in a heartbeat. Document, monitor, and protect them—before the worst occurs.
2. Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late: Stories like Kyndi’s show how devastating stolen horses can be. Stay vigilant, know your horses, and take preventive steps now.
3. Awareness Saves Horses: Even without an official case, following Kyndi’s experience reminds us: being proactive—security, documentation, and monitoring—can prevent heartbreak.
4. Protect What You Love: Horse theft happens quickly, and recovery isn’t guaranteed. Take action today to safeguard your horses, before they disappear
5. A Happy Ending Isn’t Always Guaranteed: Kyndi’s story had a positive outcome, but stolen horse victims face fear, loss, and uncertainty. Prevention and vigilance are the best protection.

Credits and Disclaimer: This story is shared with permission from Kyndi Sutfin-Perry. Stolen Horse International | NetPosse worked with Kyndi to accurately tell the events and has permission to use the photos. It is shared for awareness and education to help horse owners understand the risks of horse theft and the importance of proactive protection.