Teen Competent for Trial in South Point Horse Stabbings, 15 Charges Pending

A teenage girl accused of injuring three horses at a South Point Hotel and Casino barrel racing event has been found competent to stand trial, and her next court hearing is set for Dec. 8 at 9 a.m.

Las Vegas Metropolitan Police reported that officers responded around 2:07 a.m. on Saturday, May 30, to the South Point barn area, where three horses had been intentionally cut with a sharp object.

Investigators booked the juvenile into Clark County Juvenile Hall on 12 counts of willful or malicious killing, maiming, or torturing an animal, plus three counts of felony malicious destruction of property. The suspect had been competing in the National Barrel Horse Association event. The Clark County District Attorney's Office has said it wants the case moved to adult criminal court; court records show that transfer had not occurred as of Oct. 28.

A spokesperson for the Clark County District Attorney's Office declined to comment beyond confirming the competency finding and the Dec. 8 hearing date. Police have not released the suspect's name because she is a juvenile. The South Point Hotel and Casino operates a barn and arena facility used for equestrian events, including competitions sanctioned by the National Barrel Horse Association.