Prosecutors: S. Calif horse dealer deceived customers by painting, drugging horses

Charge: Dealer painted, drugged horses before sale

LOS ANGELES — Authorities say a Southern California horse dealer has reached a plea deal after being accused of selling animals that were sick, drugged and sometimes painted a different color.

The U.S. attorney’s office said Friday that Trina Kenney of Wrightwood has agreed to plead guilty to one felony count of mail fraud. Victims included 61 people in 23 states and Canada.

Prosecutors allege Kenney tricked one customer by drugging a horse to make it appear calm and painted at least two others to match the color she advertised. In other instances Kenney allegedly accepted money for horses customers never received.

Prosecutors say the 32-year-old kept changing her name and websites to avoid getting caught.

Authorities conducted a sting after finding multiple complaints online.