Stolen Horse named Smartest Code (Ruben) - Enumclaw, WA, 98022 #8979

Stolen Horse Near Enumclaw, WA, 98022

Name: Smartest Code (Ruben)
Gender: Gelding
Species: Horse
Breed: Quarter Horse
Description: This case involves the theft of a horse belonging to Jack Hodge, whose contact information is 253‑350‑8357 and jackh@emeralddowns.com.

The incident has been formally reported to the King County Sheriff’s Office under police report number C26009773, with Deputy Hess as the responding officer. The horse, Smartest Code, commonly known as “Ruben,” is a 15‑year‑old sorrel Quarter Horse gelding standing approximately 14.1 hands tall.

He has distinguishable markings including a prominent facial blaze, a white rear coronet band, and noticeable roaning through his ribcage and flanks. Ruben held significant sentimental value to the family, as he was the horse of Mr. Hodge’s daughter, Stephanie, who passed away from breast cancer in November of last year.

Ruben was last seen at approximately 1:50 a.m. on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at Double Star Ranch / Oak Crest Farms, located near SE 400th Street and 224th Avenue SE in Enumclaw, Washington, with the farm address listed as 39510 224th Ave SE, Enumclaw, WA 98022. At that time, unknown individuals unlawfully entered the property, went directly to the barn where Ruben was housed, and removed him. Surveillance observations and neighbor reports indicate that two individuals walked into the barn at approximately 1:50 a.m., led Ruben out through the back gate of the property onto 392nd Street, continued toward 212th Avenue, and loaded him into a truck and trailer that had been staged and waiting nearby.

Neighbors located behind the property observed the truck and trailer arriving and departing during the time of the incident. The circumstances indicate a deliberate and targeted theft rather than a crime of opportunity. Anyone with information regarding Ruben’s whereabouts or the individuals involved is urged to contact the King County Sheriff’s Office and reference report number C26009773.
Area Last Seen: Enumclaw, WA, 98022
Date Stolen: 4/9/2026
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