CAMDEN Co., N.C. - It's an odd and cruel crime. Imagine walking out of the stables and finding the hair snipped off your show horse.
It's a reality for a family in Camden County.
"It's awful, I don't know who would want to do this. He is a part of the family and we are so upset," said Timberly Bedlow.
Bedlow has competed in barrel races with Thunder, her 17-year-old horse, for years.
"He and I have gone all over the East Coast, he is so sweet," she said.
But this weekend when he hits the races, he will be missing a vital part of his body.
"It must have happened between 5 and 8 Thursday night. I went outside, checked on him, shined the light and his tail was gone," said Bedlow.
Bedlow says horse's tails are vital to their health, as they help swat off flies and insects in the summer that tend to bite.
"It will take 7 years to grow back," she said.
This isn't the first time the family has fallen victim to this strange type of thievery. Someone entered their property on North River Road twice in 2018 and lopped off hair from two horses.
Horsehair can be used for several applications, including artificial hair, wigs, extensions or in art for weaving projects, says a Camden County Sheriff's Office Facebook post.
The sheriff's office says a pound of horse hair can sell for anywhere from $500 to $1000 dollars.
"I just hope they find the person and they don't come back here," said Bedlow.
Detectives say the person or persons responsible could face animal cruelty and trespassing charges.
If you can help identify those responsible, please contact the Camden County Sheriff's Office at (252)-338-5046.
