“This is an outrage,” Jones said. “Whoever is responsible for this cowardly act must be brought to justice. The wild horses of Shackleford Banks are one of the state’s greatest historical treasures. The citizens of North Carolina and I fought successfully last year to protect and preserve this symbol of our state’s heritage.  As long as I represent the citizens of Eastern North Carolina I will continue fighting to ensure that the spirit of Shackleford Banks lives on for future generations to enjoy.”

Wild horses have roamed Shackleford Banks for nearly 300 years, after Spanish mustangs swam ashore from sinking galleons. In order to protect and preserve the treasured wild horses, Congressman Jones introduced the Shackleford Banks Wild Horse Protection Act (H.R. 765) in the 104th Congress.
 
The President signed Jones’ bill into law in August of last year, which requires that the National Park Service and the Foundation for Shackleford Horses work in alliance to maintain a herd of no less than 100 horses.

“I hope that this reward, in combination with the efforts by the Foundation for Shackleford Horses, will result in the capture of the individuals responsible for this crime,” Jones further said.  “I urge anyone with information that may be helpful in this process to please call their local law enforcement officials or the National Park Service.” 

Congressman Jones concluding by saying that the $1500 reward he is offering will come from private funds.