PENALTIES

Criminal or civil charges can be brought against violators of the Horse Protection Act.

If convicted, violators can spend up to two years in prison and be fined $5,000. Civil complaints can result in disqualifications of one or more years and fines up to $2,000.

Disqualified people may attend horse events but only as spectators and are not allowed to participate in any manner.

Source: USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service