Motorcycle Group Gives Ponies to Rupert Family

RUPERT, Idaho (KTVB) -- Support continues to grow for the Lopez family in Rupert. Last month, their pet pony Patches was badly abused and later had to be euthanized.

On Thursday night, members of the Snake River Brothers Motorcycle Club delivered two ponies to the Lopez's home. Daniela Rodriguez Lopez told KTVB her three sons have missed their pet Patches. The two ponies were donated by Bow Creek Miniatures in Richfield to help the family heal. Members of the Snake River Brothers Motorcycle Club say this was a community effort to honor Patches' memory.

Roche Equine Veterinary Services' Dr. Melinda Roche & Dr. Sid Erickson donated check-ups for the two ponies, and Valley Country Store donated halters and lead ropes. The Minidoka County Sheriff's Office is still investigating the animal cruelty case. No arrests have been made.

Meanwhile, the reward for an arrest and conviction in the Patches case is up to about $42,000. Anyone with information about the case should call (208) 434-2320. Tips can also be phoned in to Crime Stoppers at (208) 436-5353.