Horse slaughter detectives release pics of men, van

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Almost two weeks after a prized show horse was found slaughtered at a Manatee County farm, investigators have released images of two men they'd like to talk to, FOX 13's Kimberly Kuizon reports.

Stills taken from surveillance footage shows two men and a modified white van that they were believed to be driving.

The sheriff's office has not said the men are suspects -- just that they would like the public's help identifying them or the vehicle.

It was back on the morning of October 25 when Debbie Stephens found her new show jumper, who had just been brought over from Europe, dead outside his stall.

Deputies believe the horse was targeted for his size and for his meat.

Anyone with information is asked to call the sheriff's office at 941-747-3011, ext. 2542.