Possible Clue in Phedras Killing

By Staff Report December 29, 2015

There is a possible new clue in the killing of Phedras De Blondel, the Florida show jumping horse that was removed from its stall and murdered for its meat Oct. 25 in Florida.

The Imperial Farms Equestrian Center in Manatee County is believed to have been targeted a second time on Dec. 17. Facility owner Steve Stephens, a course designer of international renown, said the expensive security equipment he’s had installed since the horrendous incident of two months ago detected an intruder, tripping alarms. Surveillance footage revealed a trespasser with a flashlight who fled before he could be apprehended.

In an interview with ABC Action News, Stephens speculated as to whether the recent arrival at his barn of yet another new horse from Europe — one purchased on the same buying trip as Phedras, but shipped only recently,  using the same carrier and the same quarantine facility, might provide a hint as to to the origin of the crime.

Since horses who are transported internationally and quarantined pass USDA inspection, they could be believed to be more table-friendly, or “food consumable.”

Phedras De Blondel was purchased by Stephens’ wife Debbie as a grand prix mount, spending less than two full days at its new home before it was removed from its stall in dark of night and butchered on the outskirts of the property.

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